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No part of this publication may be rep produced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any me eans, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior wr ritten permission of Nola Lee Kelsey.
ISBN: 978-0-9825494-8-3 LCCN: 2010921227 Published by Dogs Eye View Media Edited by Barbara Hautanen Cover design by Nola Lee Kelsey Distributed by Small Press United Printed in the U.S.A.
Cover photographs: Reclining Buddha, Monkey, Lady with Elephant, Macaw, Lao Children, Man at , Zion NP by Nola lee Kelsey http://www.NolaKelsey.com Tiger, Hiking Boots (back cover) courtesy of Alan K. And derson at Reflected Sun: http://www.ReflectedSun.com
Disclaimer: Most project descriptions contained in this title have been submitted ed by the organizations themselves and should be considere subject to change. They are not recommendations, but illustrations of the v vast variety of volunteer opportunities available. Always check recent references a ask questions before and signing up for a project. Prior to booking travel you shou check a uld country/regions current political situation, visa regulatio and travel ons requirements. Both countries and project hosts may have specific requirements. e
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Dedicated to those who live for their dreams and dream of doing good
Table of Contents
Introduction You Want Me to Pay to do What? What Makes a Good Volunteer? Considerations in Selecting a Project The Guides Guide Project Listings by Location South America
Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Columbia Ecuador Guyana Paraguay Peru Uruguay Venezuela
1 5 9 15 25
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North America
Antigua and Barbuda Bahamas Belize Bonaire
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British Virgin Islands Canada Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Grenada Guadalupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Mexico Netherlands Antilles Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago United States U.S. Virgin Islands
Asia
Armenia Azerbaijan Bangladesh Cambodia China
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India Indonesia Israel Japan Jordan Lao(s) Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal Palestinian Territories Philippines Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Tajikistan Thailand Turkey Vietnam
Europe
Albania Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia
315
Czech Republic France Germany Greece Iceland Italy Poland Portugal Romania Russia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Ukraine United Kingdom
Africa
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Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Congo Cote dIvoire Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Ethiopia The Gambia Ghana Guinea Kenya Lesotho Liberia Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritius Morocco Mozambique Namibia Nigeria Rwanda Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone South Africa Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe
Oceania
American Samoa Australia Cook Islands Fiji
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Marshall Islands Micronesia New Zealand Papua New Guinea Samoa Vanuatu
Media: Writing, Music, Photography, Video & Communications II Computers & IT Skills III Teaching: Long-Term/Traditional Education in Schools III Teaching In/Out of Schools, Shorter-Term, Assistants V Special Education & Handicapped Assistance VII Teaching: Skills, Workshops & Specialty Classes VIII Teaching & Tutoring: Adult Education & Literacy X Teaching & Tutoring: English X Teaching & Tutoring Languages (non English) XII Sports Programs, Teaching & Events XIII Zoological & Environmental Education XIII Botany, Reforestation, Habitat & Trail Maintenance XV Climate Change, Water & Alternative Energy XVI Gardening, Organic Farms, Permaculture & Sustainable Living XVII Ecological Reserve Development, Flora/Fauna Census XVIII Scuba & Marine Environment Specialty Projects XIX Wildlife Care & Rescue XX Wildlife Field Research, Species Identification & Conservation XXII Domestic Animal Care & Rescue: Dogs, Cats etc. XXIV Domestic Animal Care & Rescue: Equine, Mixed Farm Animals XXV Veterinary and Animal Heath XXVI Health: General, Mixed & Public Health Education Health: Doctors, Nurses, Pre Med XXVIII Health Specialty Care Projects XXX HIV Specific Health Care & Education XXX
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Womans Health & Reproduction Education XXXI Psychological Care & Social Work XXXII Womens Shelters XXXIII Orphanages & Daycare Work for Underprivileged XXXIII At Risk Youth & Street Children Projects XXXVI Community or Youth Centers & After School Programs XXXVII Holiday and Summer Camps XXXVII Slums, Homeless Shelters, Soup Kitchens XXXVIII Fair Trade, Sustainable Income, Microloans & Business Development XXXVIII Community/Rural Development & Poverty XXXIX Habitat, Building, Construction & Maintenance XXXIX Hostels, Kibbutzim, Eco-Lodges & Hosts XLI Nonprofit Fundraising, Grants, Marketing & Office Skills XLI Interpretation/Guides, Education & Eco-Tourism Development XLIII Art, Theater & Other Cultural Projects XLIII Museum Work XLIV Refugee and Work Camps XLIV Translators XLIV Projects for Age 1517 (may/may not require an adult) XLIV Family Opportunities (Under 15 possible with an adult) XLVI Just for Teens, Tweens or Youth Groups XLVIII Traditional Tours with Volunteerism & Service Adventures XLIV Uncategorized Skills L
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The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. ~ St. Augustine
An introduction to this title is an introduction to a world of immense diversity and to finding your own personal style of volunteerism within that world. Inside these pages you will not be instructed on how to arrange for a travel visa or ways to properly fold your underwear in order to achieve maximum suitcase efficiency. There is an ample supply of books, service providers and lecturers out there better suited to help you with such issues. These pages are already packed full and are very focused - focused on opportunity. The goal here is to entice, excite and even overwhelm your senses. For the world of philanthropic-based travel is virtually limitless. The potential is too exciting to spend time on the more basic aspects of travel. A new definition for adventure is at your door. Step to the threshold. Begin your journey.
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die That you are reading this book shows you have questions, and rightfully so. You likely know you can work at an orphanage as a volunteer, but exactly what does that truly entail? You may have heard you can live out that long suppressed Jane Goodall fantasy, but can you really? Everyone knows you get those warm fuzzy, dogood feelings from volunteering, but what exactly do you do on these trips? In short, you can do almost anything! Each teaching job has its own nuances, each animal rescue its own needs. Diversity in volunteerism stretches beyond a basic location or type of work. A projects opportunities are born from a comingling of needs, cultural aspects, habitat, history new or established and so on. To say voluntourism offers something for everyone would be an understatement. Consider the diversity reflected in just the titles of the 758+ (700 simply sounded better) opportunities described in this book: Saving Albanias Ottoman Architecture Media TV Project in Mongolia Survey Endangered Gorillas and Chimpanzees Help Build the First Eco-Village in Burkina Faso Teaching Tennis for Blind Children Refuge for Trafficked Women and Girls Hunan Providence Teaching Year Integrated Orphanage Care, Teaching and Health Cambodia Ecotourism Development in Nazareth Creating Affordable Housing United States English Education Program for Children of the City Dump Guatemala Whales and Tourism Iceland Scotland Conservation Work Weeks
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Introduction
Youth Fair Collaboration Honduras Ionian Dolphin Project: Delphis Dolphins Greece Equine Aid to Underprivileged Working Animals Alternative Education Project in a Mayan Village Mapping Change in California's Mountains Integrated Eco-Cultural Resource Management Project in Sri Lanka Teach, Learn-Organic Farming & Sustainable Living M*A*S*H* Save Dogs and Cats - Fifty at a Time! White Wilderness: Winter Wolf and Lynx Tracking Slovakia You can even send your 11 to 17 year old off on their own educational service adventure, while you camp under an Outback sky monitoring hairy-nosed wombats or while you use your business savvy to help a womens art cooperative in South America bring their products to a global market. Each of the project details in this book are keys to unlocking over 700 doors. Peek inside. Find the opportunity that beckons to you and step through. This will be your first step down the road best traveled, a road that journeys much further than any of the typical tourism trappings, winding deep into your heart and enveloping your soul.
As with all roads there will be bumps along the way. Often with voluntourism those bumps come in the form of other peoples voices or judgments. They may say, Dont pay to volunteer. or Dont trust a small organization with no formal program. Dont use some big organization that coordinates formal programs. Volunteering as part of a tour is not real volunteering Volunteering as part of a tour is a great way to
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die introduce kids or yourself to voluntary travel. It is human nature to have opinions often on subjects we know little about. So consider the source and then decide for yourself where to begin. Prior to the pages containing project listings, there are several chapters designed to help you make your selection of a project a little easier. Advice is provided from a diverse mix of experts in the industry. (Yes, volunteer travel is an industry.) Their input and suggestions are tools for you to use in the forming your own educated approach to volunteer travel, thus finding your own personal voluntary style.
Additional sources of information are also available. Readers are invited to ask questions and receive up-to-date news online, through the Volunteer Before You Die Network. The final chapter of this book provides further details for those wishing to learn more about these resources. However, in the end, you will know in your heart when you find the program that suits you best. Good project matches call out to your passions, take hold of your imagination and demand to be experienced.
Dont go forth and conquer the world. Go forth and embrace the world fully as an equal among all living things.
Volunteers are not paid -- not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless. ~ Unknown
When first presented, the concept of paying to do volunteer work frequently rubs people the wrong way. I was no exception. All through college I scooped poop, cleaned wounds and built enclosures (mostly held together by my own dried blood) as a 25+ hour per week volunteer. The only costs to me were those of the occasional rabies shot and tetanus booster, or so I thought. Later, as a real wildlife keeper, foolish people paid me money to do what I loved. Given that lofty accomplishment, how could anyone now ask me to give up both my vacation time and my money to contribute such fabulously honed talents? The audacity! Time changes all things, especially perspective and attitude. Recently I read a blog comment from a young man proclaiming, Sorry to say it, but all projects where you pay money to volunteer are a scam. His ignorance rubbed me the wrong way. By scratching just below the surface a case for paid voluntourism can easily be made. Consider the following points, only then will you
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die have the tools necessary to make an educated decision as to whether or not paid volunteer travel opportunities are right for you. First recognize that you are not paying to work. Responsible volunteer travel providers provide. Go figure. They supply services to you and should also benefit the projects you work on. To varying degrees, often dependent on cost, you as the traveler can expect any of the following services. Project information and/or training prior to your trip Assistance with making travel arrangements Airport pick-up, transfers and other logistics taken care of for you Side trips, escorts, translators and other assistance acclimating you to the region where you are volunteering Prearranged accommodations and meals may be provided Emergency assistance An onsite representative familiar with the work, the country and how to resolve issues that may arise Defined expectations In other words you are freed up to share your skills, learn from the project hosts and experience the culture without sweating the innumerable logistical hassles of self-travel. Will problems still arise from time to time? Sure! Such things are a part of travel. Nonetheless, fewer hassles and a good safety net are never a bad thing to have. In addition the best philanthropic travel providers also benefit the non-governmental organizations (NGOs), nonprofits, research teams, projects, etc. which they work with by providing them help in many of the following ways: Providers can locate (provide) qualified, prescreened/pretrained assistance to charities and causes without the
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You Want Me to Pay to Do What? recipient of the volunteers having to administer their own volunteer recruitment program. An intermediary is available to deal with volunteer emergencies and problematic volunteers. (Yes, they do exist.) Not all charities are prepared to deal with the housing, feeding, transport and other logistical issues that come with having a formal volunteer program. Yet, they desperately need more helping hands. Intermediaries, such as voluntourism operators bridge this gap. Frequently organizations providing volunteers also make monetary contributions, donate supplies and assist the programs in other ways. Always ask a potential provider the exact ways they contribute to the programs they represent and/or the communities they work within.
These are just a few illustrations of how both travelers and charitable operations benefit from the use of a good volunteer travel coordinator program. Paying to volunteer does not seem quite as bad when you look at the realities of what providers do. And dont forget they have their own administrative costs to cover, including: Paying salaries of staff (Id much rather help support jobs for someone who coordinates trips to help orphanages than to see all my money support some Wall Street bankers Christmas bonus) Locating and inspecting responsible projects for volunteers, often all over the world, and weeding out those that may indeed be scams themselves. Advertising/recruiting/screening volunteers and providing them with pre-trip assistance, training and information. Good marketing takes money and a unique skill set small
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die third world charities dont always have the resources to perfect. Websites, and taxes, and office equipment oh my! As you see good quality organizations connecting people to projects desperately needing volunteers provide legitimate services. Often they do so at a minimum of expense and can be an invaluable tool in making sure your travel experience is both positive and productive. Keep in mind volunteering is like a short marriage. One way or another you pay. Should you choose to go it alone, washing up on some distant shore looking for a volunteer project - that approach works for some types of travelers. Everyone has their own voluntary style. I confess, Ive taken this approach many times. However, it was not free! I still needed accommodations. I still had to find places to eat and to tackle the challenges of foreign transportation. Many lessons were learned the hard (and often expensive) way. Nonetheless, that was my personal voluntary style at the time. For the most part, it still is my approach, especially when volunteering is just one facet of a more extensive journey. Yet, as I get a little bit older, I find no shame in wanting to focus purely on the projects which I long to volunteer with; concentrating specifically on the animals, the children, the primary work at hand. Leaving lesser arrangements to someone else from time to time can be a blessing. I suspect this new forming love of singular focus and ease will grow with the passing years. In fact, the very thought of approaching a project with a poop-scoop in one hand and no worries in the other makes me grin just a little bit bigger as I contemplate my next volunteer adventure.
Don't ever question the value of volunteers. Noah's Ark was built by volunteers; the Titanic was built by professionals. ~ Unknown
Is volunteering right for everyone? Honestly, no. However, when approached with some thought, volunteering is right for almost every traveler. Consider that it is the nature of the traveler to have an unyielding thirst for visiting new places and a craving for new experiences. Volunteering heightens these sensations 100 fold, because the experience is real. Reality, not tour buses, adds a quantifiable quality to your journey. Of course, we cant all be Mother Teresa. We do not need to be. Those who only know me by reputation as a serial volunteer and writer could presume me to be delicate and gentle. I assure you, those who know me in person dont often make that connection. But, most everyone will agree they likely never wanted to witness a 90 year old Mother Teresa push-boarding a sea lion into a squash cage, nor do I have any business working with children. My voluntary style, or niche as it were, is best practiced on projects where more colorful English language phrases will not be readily absorbed by the locals - then past from one generation
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die to the next around the slums of Calcutta. I recognize this shortfall. Luckily voluntourism offers something for everybody. There will always be an inevitable few who show up to walk sanctuary dogs wearing white pants and high-heeled shoes or those who comment that they wish the refugee camp was located in a better neighborhood. Fortunately, these folks are in the minority. Better still, as hard as it is to believe, there is actually hope for them too. Even those travelers who initially appear to be better off left back on the shallow end of the cruise ships pool do harbor the potential to be fantastic volunteers. The secret is to find the program best suited to their voluntary style. Ms. White Pants may not find her glory as a dog walker, but she may be perfect for coordinating a fashion show/fundraiser for that very same shelter. Matching talents to projects is one of the biggest keys to being a good volunteer, and thus, to having a positive experience. A large part of achieving a good match comes from understanding what is expected of you. What do organizations needing volunteers hope to see you bring to the table when you arrive at a project? I surveyed volunteer travel providers and asked just one question: What makes a good volunteer? Their answers were surprisingly similar. The following responses best summarize the industry replies.
David Minich Director of Global Volunteer Engagement Habitat for Humanity International: www.Habitat.org A good volunteer understands the organizations goals and is willing to continually learn more. They are curious, committed, flexible, and passionate. Dedicated volunteers work in all
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Dayne Davey Co-Director EDGE of AFRICA: www.EdgeOfAfrica.com Our volunteers come from all over the world, with varying backgrounds, histories, goals and ideas. This is what makes each individual so important to our projects. Every person has the ability to contribute unique aspects of themselves to their chosen project and time and time again we have seen our volunteers flourish with their ideas when applied to specific goals. The best attribute a volunteer can have is enthusiasm! A good volunteer will want to get stuck in, learn about (and not criticize) new cultures, understand the African environment and people, as well as our own short and long term goals within each project- but most of all, have the confidence to know that, wherever your skills lie, you have the potential to become an excellent volunteer and make a difference to the people and environment of South Africa!
Jonathan Gilben Director GoEco: www.GoEco.org A good volunteer is someone who is open-minded enough to experience a new culture and way of life. Patience is an important virtue on a volunteer project and a strong motivation to do the tasks at hand. A volunteer should know what he/she wants to do, yet be able to cope with the unexpected.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Expect to be surprised and if you come with the right attitude you might just have the experience of a lifetime.
Jill Robinson Project Assistant Greenheart Travel: www.CCI-Exchange.com A good volunteer is many things; the obvious being compassionate, open-minded and hard-working, but often times it is having a sense of humor that makes all the difference. The environment and culture where many projects are located can be physically and emotionally taxing, and living conditions are probably not going to be five-star accommodations. Cold showers might be uncomfortable, but chalking this up to one more character-building experience can help a volunteer stay motivated and positive, especially when a kind word or smile can be the most important contribution in the day.
Kalene Craddock Volunteer Manager Best Friends Animal Society: www.BestFriends.org Volunteers come from all walks of life and different backgrounds. People tend to volunteer for a particular cause because they are passionate about it and because they believe they can also benefit from the experience. But no matter who the person, their background, and the reasons they volunteer, we, as the organizations, all look for the same things in our volunteers: Passion: Do what you love and have passion for the cause Compassion: Having empathy for those you are helping with a
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desire to help and give back Enthusiasm/Energy: A positive, upbeat attitude is a MUST (no negative Nellies wanted) Commitment: It shows your passion for the cause Dependability: Willing to devote time to your cause; remember, organizations depend on you Patience: With those you work with and work for (help) Communication: Be able to relate to those you work with and work for, following directions, listen to other and share your ideas
Greg Scruggs Vice-President and Volunteer Coordinator-U.S.A. Two Brothers Foundation: www.2Bros.org A good volunteer does not arrive with preconceived notions, but can roll with the punches and adapt to the particular circumstances of location, culture, and organizational strength of the place where he/she is volunteering. At the same time, one of my parents' favorite pearls of wisdom definitely applies: Did you leave it in better shape than when you arrived?
As you can see, whatever the type of project, whatever organization you are working for, it is your positive attitude, your spirit, that is fundamental to a fantastic volunteer experience. By arriving with an open-mind, a determination to work hard and an honest smile, the ability to be a good, even a great, volunteer is within you. Find a project that suits your niche and set your spirit free.
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"We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls." - Anais Nin
Now that you know what traits organizations hosting volunteers desire in their participants, the next step in matching yourself to an adventure will be determining what you yourself want in, and from, a project. Yes. I said you and want. This is not as selfish as it sounds. Everyone has different ideologies, and even physical needs which determine what experiences in life are best tailored to them. Like projects, no two volunteers are the same. It is important you be honest with yourself about what you need from the experience of volunteering. What are your mental expectations and physical limitations? Just one example of expectations would be that some travelers are happy knowing a percentage of the fees they pay to volunteer will go to help global building projects. Others may expect (or assume) it is all invested in the exact community where they volunteer. Check with your provider in advance, so you are not disillusioned mid-trip.
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Physical needs reach beyond just admitting to yourself youll likely have a heart attack scaling the mountain to reach a hilltribe school, or that you prefer hotels over camping. Considerations such as climate, even introverted tendencies, or conversely, not being able to handle isolation need to be allowed for. Your needs may also evolve from project to project. For example, while volunteering on your honeymoon, honeyteering (seriously) is a fantastic way to start a new life together, I believe I speak for everyone when I ask that you dont plan to share a dormitory with your fellow travelers. Locking (or worse still, not locking) others out while you indulge in conjugal recreations will not endear you to anyone on your team. Please, look for a project that offers private accommodations. After a few years you may evolve to a point where even separate dormitories (or continents) will be an acceptable option for you. Ultimately, selfishness is more likely to come from not considering your own wants and needs. When you dont think first, you, your fellow travelers and your host organization all pay the price. Negative feelings can snowball. So remember, if you cant stand the heat, stay out of the tropics!
To start you asking questions of yourself that will pinpoint your personal voluntary style, I surveyed the best of adventurers; folks who are travel writers, serial volunteers or both. The question this time: What do you feel is the most important thing for a traveler to look for when selecting an organization to volunteer with?
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Derek Turner Travel Writer/Photographer/Volunteer Vagabond www.TheWorldBySea.com Trying to find the right organization to volunteer with is sort of like finding your soul mate through an online dating service. You can scroll through pages and pages of perfect potential, where every clever name is matched to a pretty picture with perfect lighting and a mysterious blur around the edges. Everyone seems to enjoy long walks on the beach, hanging out with friends, and can either dress up for a night on the town, or dress down for a casual, relaxing night at home. Then finally, after all the anticipation and bloated daydreams, you learn on your first date that the self-proclaimed supermodel is actually 20 years older than the glamour shot that first caught your eye. And instead of the "deep conversation" and "active lifestyle" he or she claimed to enjoy, the person talks in incomplete sentences and is probably only active in chat rooms. So how DO you find your soul mate??? Well the truth is; you may not... and you may not need to. A lot of organizations will have strong points, but it's going to be hard to find the "perfect" match. What's important is that you find an organization that's compatible. Here are few tips that might be useful in your search for love and/or volunteer projects: Know yourself: What is it that inspires and drives you? There are millions of needs out there; you might as well meet one that's close to your heart. It's hard to find your soul mate, especially if you don't know what's most important to you. Know your partner: Dig a little bit. Ask a lot of questions before you take the next step. It's easy to get swept up in the profile pictures and pretty words, but to really know someone you need to ask questions. Ask about the overall goals of the
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die organization and the specific goals of the project you would be a part of. Ask about their expectations. While you may want to help an orphanage in a third world country, that could mean anything from teaching kids to digging a hole to throw trash into. Both are good and helpful, just make sure your expectations match theirs. Who's supporting who: It's not wrong to want to be with someone who is financially stable. The same goes with volunteer organizations. Often times a "volunteer" project comes with a healthy price tag. Again, that's not necessarily bad, but if I'm going to pay money to make a difference- I want to make sure my money is making a difference too.
Joyce Major Volunteer/Writer/Speaker www.InexpensiveGlobalVolunteering.com www.SmilingAtTheWorld.com Going to a foreign country to do volunteer work for a week or a month is both a challenging and rewarding endeavor. You arrive, look around to see what needs to be done and then scatter as much good as you can in a short time before heading home chockfull of memories and with a heart full of joy from volunteering. With many questions coming up about the details of your voluntourism vacation, you may forget the most important thing...YOU! Successfully choosing your project will be easier if you recognize what makes your heart sing and your spirit soar. What is it that you want to feel when the project is over? A sense of accomplishment for something tangible you helped create? The memory of a childs face lighting up when you come into the
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room? A new found passion to focus your energy on when you return home? What do you want to learn about yourself and this new culture? As a volunteer, you will be fitting your tiny puzzle piece into their large puzzle and it would be good if you first had a sense of your own priorities. Once you have zeroed in on the details of your personal quest, I suggest volunteering with grassroots organizations that reflect your mission. Work with the founders of wildlife sanctuaries like Lek at The Elephant Nature Park in Thailand or Carol at Roo Gully Sanctuary in Australia. Travel to Languages El Nahual in Guatemala to meet Jaime, who started a school for poor children. Grassroots organizations are not catering to volunteers as a business but rather truly need your help. Youll soon be pitching in feeling like one of the family. If successful, your journey as a volunteer will end with you having received more than you could ever give.
Barb Hautanen Editor: Dog's Eye View Media/Serial Animal Volunteer www.DogsEyeViewMedia.com 'Details' are the most important thing to look for in order to make your volunteer adventure a positive experience. Below I will list some important items to consider. Location: Where do you want to go? Rural area versus city life. I have been on projects where some volunteers were going crazy because the only thing to do at night was read a book wearing a head lamp under a mosquito net. If you want some night life, restaurants, shops, Internet, then don't choose a project in the jungle.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Climate: Tropical, temperate or cool? When just the 'thought' of high heat & humidity makes you melt , then it is best to not choose a place located by the equator. Conversely, if you hate the cold you wont enjoy tracking snow leopards, even if you love them.
Accommodations: Do you crave privacy? If so, sharing a room with six others and sleeping in bunk beds will make you unhappy. Many projects provide homestays so you can really get to know the local people. Just realize your hosts take their role very seriously and may want to include you in everything the family does. At my homestay, I was the afternoon entertainment for the neighbors. Since I was the only mazungu (white person) for miles, my host family would allow local kids to come in and watch me as I drank tea. Food: Carnivore, omnivore or vegetarian? If you are a meat lover, you might not enjoy the vegetarian diet served at many animal rescue projects. Also, find out if the project requires the volunteers to cook their own meals. I am embarrassed to admit that this is a consideration for me. I hate to cook. When volunteer cooking unexpectedly occurred on a project, I offered to be the clean up person & dishwasher. Not surprisingly, no one fought with me for that position & I was loved by all the volunteers ;-) Type of work: Do your expectations match the job? You may choose an animal program thinking you will have 'hands on' contact with the elephants, orangutans or whatever. But, you could end up surprised to learn that your duties are building enclosures, planting/harvesting food for the animals, maintenance/clean-up work at the rescue center, etc. Or, you may want to 'save the whales', but if you get
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seasick--not good. If you desire to join a healthcare project, you have to consider that third world clinics, hospitals, and patients can be very different from back home. It is heartbreaking to see people ill or die from diseases that are easily curable where you live. Costs involved with the project: Whats not included? Prospective volunteers may just look at the program price & think that they can afford it. But, you need to look beyond the basics. Here are some other costs to consider: visas (can be $10 to over $100), immunizations (some are quite costly), you may need to stay overnight at a hotel en route to your destination, some countries charge entrance & exit fees and if you plan to do touring on your days off you will need extra cash. If a project requires you to do your own cooking, you will have to purchase food when you arrive. Then there are personal extras--Internet fees, buying snacks, going out for a meal or drinks, etc. Learn more about the project: Whats the inside scoop? The information given by the volunteer organization may say one thing, but in reality it could be a different story. This is where the Internet can help you. Enter the name of your possible future project and see what comes up. You can find information on such sites as Lonely Planet, VolunteerBeforeYouDie.com and similar travel pages. Or maybe some media organization has written about the project you want to join on. If you are a member of Facebook, type in the name of the group you are interested in and then join it. These pages are often full of photos, personal accounts and sometimes even videos of volunteer work at the place you are thinking about. If you have questions, you can post them on
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die the site and get a reply from someone who has 'been there, done that'. I hope these tidbits of information will help you have a wonderful volunteer experience. The only problem with having a great time volunteering is you can get addicted to it and end up being a 'serial volunteer' like I am!
Jane Stanfield Author of Mapping Your Volunteer Vacation www.JaneStanfieldWISH.com International volunteering is so exciting to contemplate, but before you go be sure to do your heart research. The best experiences happen when both you and the organization have the same outlook about the worth of the project and the value it gives to the local community. Having a true and deep interest in the project and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done is key to the quality of your experience. When you are excited and eager to get out of bed (at whatever hour you are needed) to do your volunteer work, you are in for an amazing experience. After all, who cares if you are woken up at 5:15 am by wild baboons dancing on the roof of your dorm when an infant baboon clings to you for comfort and you need to bottle feed him at 7:00 am! Where else could you have this type of experience other than on an international volunteer trip? When you find the right project you return home filled with the wonder of the experience and the drive to volunteer again and again. With proper time spent on research you can find an organization that offers you volunteer work that fits your interest, time and budget, but more importantly, your heart!
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Joshua Berman Travel Writer www.JoshuaBerman.net The first thing I want to know about my host organization is: How are they are connected to the local community? Who are their neighborhood affiliations and what is their role and reputation? Some of these things are difficult to assess from home, but these are questions you can ask directly to the organization before committing to anything. Having ties to a long-standing local group and/or community leader is crucial. Swooping into a completely new and foreign environment as a volunteer is much smoother when your organization is part of a strong network of active families in your host village. If you are paying a fee or tuition to volunteer, ask questions about where your money goes and how much, if any, of your fee is being donated to a local project, fund, or NGO. Also, how much experience, if any, do your host organization and group leaders have working in the host community where you are going? More experience is better, but then again, someone always has to be the first group at a new site and there are unexpected advantages to being in a guinea pig group. Finally, find out about language issues: Are you expected to study the language before you go? Will there be translators present in your organization or among your group leaders? Obviously, the more language you can acquire before you go (even just a few words and phrases) will facilitate making the personal connections with host country nationals, which is one of the main reasons most people decide to volunteer in the first place. Ask your organization about resources for learning the language.
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Editors note: Joshua Berman is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, trip leader, Spanish teacher and travel writer. He is the author of Moon Belize, Moon Nicaragua, and Living Abroad in Nicaragua. His blog, "The Tranquilo Traveler, is a celebration of voluntourism, slow travel, and other interesting ways to see the world.
How does that old saying go? To thine own self be true. Shakespeare must have been a volunteer. Knowing yourself and asking questions of a project host that focus on your needs and expectations will match you to the right philanthropic opportunity more precisely than any glitzy advertisement or website ever could. When selecting a project, search your heart AND use you head. Then you will be ready to truly make a difference, to discover a new way of travel, to elevate yourself while lifting up others and to truly (as the other saying goes) be the change you want to see in the world.
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It is not down in any map; true places never are. ~Herman Melville
In the creation of this guidebook over a thousand organizations offering volunteer opportunities to travelers were contacted for information. The responses are fresh. Most of the project details were created by the NGOs, individual project representatives or organizations coordinating volunteer travel programs themselves. They were not harvested from old data found lying around the dusty basement of the World Wide Web. As indicated in the table of contents, the listings are organized by region and then alphabetized, usually by country if not prominent destination (e.g. separate listing exist for both Israel and the Palestinian Territories). The types of projects detailed are diverse. There are books for those who have only one specific interest, such as publications geared toward travelers wanting to volunteer at an archeological site. However it is the nature of travelers to want to, even need to, discover new things. Even if you have a feel for the type of volunteer work you are mostly interested in,
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die running your eyes across other listings will reveal a wealth of new possibilities. The journey you had in mind when you purchased this book may be quite different from where you wind up going. Opportunities along with new twists on old concepts about voluntourism abound. Your journey begins here and now.
Organization: The specific organization whose details are listed. This may be the charity itself or it may be a travel operator hosting/supplying volunteers for the project. For example, there are a number of organizations bringing in volunteers to work on sea turtle projects in Costa Rica. They may differ by project location, type of work undertaken, the level of accommodations, etc. Some may provide additional tours before or after your volunteer experience. Projects vary by any number of factors. Location: This is the projects primary work location, not necessarily where the main office is based. Cost: Prices are given in U.S. Dollars. Fee free and low budget projects have been placed at the beginning of each regions listings, making them easier to find. The cost should be considered a starting point and also subject to change. Nonetheless, it is a good indicator of whether a volunteer opportunity falls within your particular budget constraints. Duration: Many volunteer projects have set durations. A summer camp for at risk youth may need volunteer counselors to stay for the entire five weeks of the camp. Teaching projects may last a semester or a year. Other opportunities such as a wildlife rescue may require a minimum stay of two weeks, but no maximum (beyond what the countrys visa requirements allow). A set duration insures that the investment a project makes in training you is worth their time. On the flip side, some facilities,
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such as an orphanages or even dog rescues, may be grateful just to have folks stop in for half a day, be it to play with the kids or socialize the pups. Age: In most cases volunteer projects are for those 18 years and older. Some, right or wrong, have maximum age limits. There are also a nice selection of projects available which are suitable for families. Some organizations even specialize in give-back travel and service tours designed specifically for teens, high school classes and the like. To readily locate these specialized opportunities see this books Index of Volunteer Listings by Project Type. Contact: Contacts for organizations are usually listed as an email address, although some have provided phone numbers as well. Please be respectful of an organizations time. Read all the project details and visit their website prior to asking for further information. Learn more: Once you find a project that intrigues you, the best place to gather further details will almost always be a website. Be careful though. Once you visit their site, you will often find that an organization offering one opportunity that gives you a rush of excitement tends to offer many projects that speak to you. This is how serial volunteers are first conceived. Thus far, there is no cure for this condition. Special skills: Many volunteer opportunities are open to everyone. Some train you as part of the experience. Other times organizations are in great need of people with very specific skills, such as doctors, veterinary nurses, builders, people with experience in marketing or fair trade, etc. If you see a project you desperately want to work on and your skills do not match the description, it never hurts to contact the organization. Talk to them. You may be able to show them how your unique experience
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die is related and beneficial. Exchanging knowledge and ideas is one of the most rewarding parts of the volunteer process. Details: This is where readers can get a better feel for the specific project and often for the host organization itself.
As with all things in life the usual disclaimers should be kept in mind. Information in the book may change. Volunteer organizations grow. They close. They alter their focus. Please always check recent references and, of course, practice safe travel. Beyond common sense there are several additional tools now at your disposal. In the final chapter of this book, The Volunteer Before You Die Network, a support system for volunteers is laid out. Readers of 700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die and The Voluntary Traveler: Adventures from the Road Best Traveled can network with other like-minded adventurers, sharing information, tips, experiences and more. Join the conversation.
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Only with a burning patience can we conque the splendid City er which will give light, justice and dignity to all m mankind. In this way the song will not have been sung in vain. g
~ Pablo Neruda
Argentina
Support Communities Affected by Minin ng
Organization: Asociacin MAPU/Assembly of Se elf-Organized Neighbours against Mining of Esquel Location: Esquel, Patagonia Cost: $550 includes MAPU membership and 1 months accommodation Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@patagoniavolunteer.org Learn more: www.patagoniavolunteer.org Special skills: Intermediate level of Spanish plus English, German, French or Italian as mother tongue ng Details: MAPU Association is currently cooperatin with the Assembly of Self-Organized Neighbours against Mining of Esquel on the national he and international awareness campaign regarding th issue of communities affected by mining. The goal is to rais awareness about the se environmental, social and economic dangers of metal mining
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activities during the morning and then have breakfast and lunch at the project site. During the afternoon several workshops are offered to both children and adults, such as: cooking, sewing, handcrafts, computer literacy, etc. Your responsibility will be to tutor children and teenagers through workshops and non-formal educational activities on the organizations premises. Activities will be organized according to your experience, preference and the interests of the participants. Some of the possible options are: music workshops, sports, games and outdoor activities, radio and communication workshop, computer literacy classes and handcrafts workshops.
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feeding, cleaning, breeding, build/repair, horse riding, veterinary help, learn about flora and fauna and have real and meaningful contact with animals.
Helping Hands
Organization: Academia Buenos Aires Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina Cost: None (if volunteer takes 4 weeks of Spanish lessons with the organization at $200 per week) Duration: 1+ Months Age: 18 Contact: info@academiabuenosaires.com Learn more: www.academiabuenosaires.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish Details: This project offers a variety of activities and offers you the possibility to help where it is needed in 3 different neighborhoods of Buenos Aires (La Boca, Villa Soldati and Parque Patricios). Volunteers can help in a community centre that benefits the people in the neighborhood, running a soup kitchen and offering computer and English lessons and educational reinforcement for the kids. At a daycare center the children of the neighborhood need school support and people who care about their continuous education. This also includes recreational activities. Another project is helping children that are HIV positive (between 6 and 16 years old). Volunteers help the coordinators of the home to organize the different activities such as: music, English, computation, school support, sports or chess.
Stay Together
Organization: Academia Buenos Aires Location: Buenos Aires Cost: None (if volunteer takes 4 weeks of Spanish lessons with the organization at $200 per week) Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@academiabuenosaires.com Learn more: www.academiabuenosaires.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish Details: This project has its focus on improving the standard of living of the low and medium income families such as housing, security, education and pollution. Help is needed in different parts of Buenos Aires. Through a neighborhood association they fight for self empowerment, so that the community itself can take the initiative to solve the problems they confront. There is also a children daycare centre offering school support, music, dance, cooking, yoga, English, arts,
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Caring Angels
Organization: Academia Buenos Aires Location: Buenos Aires Cost: None (if volunteer takes 4 weeks of Spanish lessons with the organization at $200 per week) Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@academiabuenosaires.com Learn more: www.academiabuenosaires.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish Details: Volunteers are needed in three homes for orphans or children, whose parents cannot care for them. Some of the children are HIV positive; others experienced mistreatment and neglect, family violence or sexual abuse. The children are between 6 months and 18 years old (but mostly under the age of 10), live on site and go to school half a day. Volunteers who have experience in working with children are particularly needed!
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Details: According to some Argentine organizations, around 100 people in Argentina die every day due to malnourishment or hunger related disease. Thousands of people in Buenos Aires depend on soup kitchens as a daily source of food. The kitchens welcome volunteers to assist with preparing and serving meals as well as cleaning up and interacting with the people who come in for meals. Volunteers are also welcome to help with other projects such as clothing donation drives, youth programs and distribution of food baskets and medical supplies.
Animal Conservation
Organization: uVolunteer Location: Cordoba, Calamuchita Valley Cost: $1,230 for the first month; $125 each additional week Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvolunteer.org Special skills: Intermediate Spanish Details: While volunteering in Argentina, you will be working with the local community to protect and conserve endangered animals, wildlife and their surrounding environment. There are a growing number of
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conditions of the local population, from a cultural, social and economic perspective. The government of Crdoba established a cultural center in the city, and together, they have the capacity to organize different kinds of cultural and educational events. Other organizations offering projects in Argentina: Center for Cultural Interchange: www.cci-exchange.com Connect 123: www.connect-123.com Fundacin Banco de Alimentos (food bank Foundation): www.volunteersouthamerica.net i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org GIC Argentina: www.gicarg.org Patagonia School: www.patagoniaschool.com Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Voluntario Global: www.voluntarioglobal.org.ar Volunteer Latin America: www.volunteerlatinamerica.com Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms: www.wwoof.org
Bolivia
Proyecto Horizonte: Uspha Uspha
Organization: Proyecto Horizonte Location: Cochabamba Cost: None Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@uspha-uspha.com Learn more: www.uspha-uspha.com Special skills: Intermediate Spanish Details: Proyecto Horizonte is a NGO providing development services to the community of Mineros San Juan, Cochabamba. In just a little over five years, the organization has progressed to a full-fledged community development organization, providing education for community members of all ages, healthcare, infrastructure, community enrichment and awareness activities and economic development services like microfinance and microenterprise support. Approximately 70 teachers and staff work to ensure the education and well-being of more than 600 children, a number that is continually increasing. As a volunteer you are
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Wild Animal Care and Rehabilitation Project t
Organization: Inti Wara Yassi Location: 3 locations Cost: $178 - $200 for first 2 weeks then $7-$9 a day after that Duration: 2+ week Age: 18 Contact: info@intiwarayassi.org Learn more: www.intiwarayassi.org Special skills: You do not need to have previous experience; all you need is a big heart and the desire to work hard to save the animals. Details: If you volunteer with Inti Wara Yassi be prepare for some ed hard but extremely rewarding work. Your time will be spe ent predominantly with one animal so that it will become accu ustomed to you. This helps to keep them relaxed and happy and give t them the best life possible. Work for everyone starts at around 7 a.m. an finishes late nd in the afternoon or sometimes goes on into the evening. V Volunteers are required to stay for a minimum of 15 days, this is to protect and reassure the animals. Volunteers who wish to be responsible for a s specific animal will need further training and therefore are required to sta for a month ay (usually more for cat species).
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Creative Education
Organization: Creative Corners; The Global Arts Project Location: La Paz City Cost: 1 month $ 935, 2 months $1,130, additional months $315 Age: 20 Ccontact: enquiries@creative-corners.com Learn more: www.creative-corners.com Details: This volunteer project uses creative education to reach out to the children of La Paz including street children, shoe shine boys, children of stall sellers and children who have dropped out of school. There are 3 parts to the project: Formation of Socio-Cultural
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Animators where youll work with Bolivian teachers to experience activities where you learn how art and play interact. Ludoteques involve structured sessions in parks, plazas and libraries where children get back into learning through creative play. Creativity and Free Expression Workshops are similar, but set in less central areas around the city. The project relies on Bolivian volunteers to act as the leaders of the street workshops so innovative volunteers are always needed to support and assist in the many areas of creative play.
Organization: Creative Corners; The Global Arts Project Location: La Paz City Cost: 1 month $ 935, 2 months $1130, additional months $315 Age: 20 Contact: enquiries@creative-corners.com Learn more: www.creative-corners.com Details: These special centers for children with physical and learning disabilities are located about 10 minutes south from the center of La Paz. In Bolivia these communities are often forgotten and the children here really love creative activities and are always waiting for their next creative friend to come along! Will it be you? Activities could include: organize party activities and games, run arts and crafts workshops, run fundraising activities, redecorate the home, paint a mural, organize excursions and more.
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natural dyes. That first workshop has evolved into a series of five workshops available to any womens organization. Volunteer possibilities include assisting in the expansion of product line and marketing.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Media and Art Projects
Organization: uVolunteer Location: Santa Cruz, Bolivia Cost: $865 for the first 2 weeks; $120 each additional week Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvolunteer.org Special skills: Intermediate Spanish Details: Depending on your background and interests, you might be placed in either a museum or the institute for audiovisual learning. Museum: The aim of the project is to increase awareness and appreciation of art amongst the people of Bolivia. Working on this project means you will help organize and set up art exhibitions, as well as design promotional material such as invitations, online promotion ads. Institute for Audiovisual Learning and Video Editing: The objective of this project is to develop specialists in audiovisual techniques. You will help out the teacher in the classroom and your tasks could range from supervising classes to helping the students with their projects. If you are confident, you may also be asked to lead classes on your own. Other organizations offering projects in Bolivia: Amanecer (street kids in Cochabamba): www.amanecer-bolivia.org Casa Do Caminho Child Centres (At risk youth): www.casadocaminhobrasil.org Curamericas Global: www.curamericas.org DELPIA foundation (indigenous persons/often need construction, agriculture and biologists) www.fundacion-delpia.org Ecoteer: www.ecoteer.com Foundation for Sustainability Development (professional placements): www.fsdinternational.org Global Crossroads: www.globalcrossroad.com Lead Adventure: lead-adventures.com Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Reach Bolivia: www.reachbolivia.com Volunteering Solutions: www.volunteeringsolutions.com
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Brazil
Working in a Favela (Squatter Community) in Rio
Organization: Instituto Dois Irmos / Two Brothers Foundation Location: Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro Cost: None Duration: 3+ months preferred Age: 18 Contact: greg2bros@gmail.com Learn more: www.2bros.org Details: The Instituto Dois Irmos is a school, community center, reading room and information center all-in-one, located in the favela of Rocinha in Rio de Janeiro. The Instituto is supported financially by its sister non-profit, the Two Brothers Foundation, based in the U.S. Volunteers at the Instituto help it offer a full range of English classes for children and adults, other language classes, art/dance/photography classes, computer training, organized sports, cultural excursions, and anything else a volunteer would like to contribute. They are open-minded with regards to programming, so please bring your own skills to the table!
Casa do Caminho
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Casa do Caminho on the outskirts of Tingua Rainforest Cost: None Duration: 6+ months, 1 to 2 year long-term placements are preferred. Age: 21 Contact: casadocaminho@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: www.casadocaminhobrasil.org Special skills: Comfortable in Portuguese (Spanish speakers can learn quickly) or expertise in areas such as special needs education, psychologist, organic farming, electrician etc. Details: Casa do Caminho has existed for 25 years and cares for approximately 40 children and teenagers. Casa do Caminho offers shelter and education to give these children an opportunity for a better future. Children come to Casa do Caminho via the governmental Youth Welfare Office. They need volunteers who can help with organic farming, a Sports and Community Center, becoming a godparent to a child, computer education (ICT) and/or sex education. The center is divided into three houses (one for children up to 12 in the countryside, and 2 houses for teenage girls and boys respectively situated in Xerm the
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culminating in performances for the community and providing positive role models for those without.
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patients at a childrens hospital, and to work on health education campaigns. Volunteers with and without healthcare experience are welcome. Participants work five to six hours each day, Monday through Friday, between 7 am and 5 pm and stay with local host families who provide breakfast and dinner. Portuguese knowledge is recommended, but not required; participants with placements of four weeks or longer receive language classes.
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Natural Natal
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Araruna North-East Brazil Cost: $4,900 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 with an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required but engineering, horticultural and
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teaching English as a second language skills desirable, as is Portuguese language. Details: Participate in a blend of people, history and nature. Get an indepth understanding of the wonderful people of Brazils Natal Province. Enjoy a daylong project that improves the lives of the Natal city community by providing disabled access facilities. Later in your stay, involve yourself in a variety of projects in Araruna: assist with construction projects, help with honey extraction and put your green thumbs to work as you assist with reforestation. Aside from your volunteering, Natal province promises many other fantastic experiences: explore the coast by 4WD buggy, delve into old colonial cities and discover the UNESCO World Heritage town of Olinda. For nature lovers, visit the Manatee (Dugong) research centre and the Charles Darwin Ecological refuge. Other organizations offering projects in Brazil: AEC-TEA Association (located in Capim Grosso, Bahia): www.aec-tea.org Amazon-Africa Aid (health & education): www.amazonafrica.org Family Health International: www.fhi.org Global Leadership Adventures (for high school students): www.experiencegla.com Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com Monte Azul (long term provide meals & accommodations): www.monteazul.org.br Peace Village Foundation: www.peacevillages.org
Chile
Patagonia Sur Year
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Futaleuf or Palena in southernmost Chile Cost: None. Fully Funded by Patagonia Sur Foundation Duration: One Year (late February thru December) Age: 18-74 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org
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Cost: $4,190 in cooperation with Ministry of Education of Chile Duration: 1 Year (Departure in early February) Age: 21-45 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English Speaker (or use English in their everyday language), Bachelors degree, experience working with children/teaching, Basic Spanish proficiency and/or be willing to Ministry of Education on-line Spanish course prior to departure. Details: As a volunteer, you will be teaching English to public and semi-public school students. While most placements will involve teaching students in grades five through twelve, it is possible that some volunteers may teach younger students as well, especially in more rural placements. Since motivating students and creating opportunities for practicing English is a key goal of the program, volunteers will devote the rest of their full-time commitment to extracurricular activities both at their schools and in their communities. Volunteers will live with host families selected by the Ministry of Education, relatively near their school campuses. Host families provide an important entry into the community and a unique cultural learning opportunity. The Ministry of Education provides In-country training and support.
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along the islands rocky headlands or a swim at a secluded beach. Other organizations offering projects in Chile: A Broader View (humanitarian): www.abroaderview.org Center for Cultural Interchange/Greenheart: www.cci-exchange.com Chol-Cjol Foundation (fair trade/economic development) www.cholchol.org Eco Yoga Farms: ecological-farms.blogspot.com Ecoteer: www.ecoteer.com Gap Chile: www.gap-chile.com Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org One World Nursery (bilingual preschool): www.oneworldnursery.cl Save the Wild Chinchillas (conservation): www.wildchinchillas.org South American Connections: www.samconnects.com United Planet: www.unitedplanet.org Volunteer Chile/Bruce Chile: volunteerchile.com
Columbia
Teaching 9th Graders Computer & Communication Skills
Organization: Voces de Mompox Location: Mompox, Colombia Cost: None Duration: Open-ended Age: 21 Contact: writingjulie@gmail.com Special skills: Blog and website building; story writing; photography; videography Details: At Voces de Mompox you will work with 9th grade students, sharing your talents as a writer, photographer and/or videographer. The goal of this project is to teach kids usable skills while providing them with the opportunity to tell their own stories, ultimately learning how to upload these to a blog/website and share them with the world. Volunteers do bear the costs of transportation to/from/within Colombia as well as lodging, though some lodging opportunities may be available via the program in the future. The town of Mompox is quite isolated, so this placement is not appropriate for someone who needs/prefers urban areas, but is perfect for those
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school programs for the children and coordinate sp pecial activities such as excursions and community visits. Comprehensive p pre-departure support, fundraising guide, food, lodging, airport pick-up an drop-off, and an nd Exchange Manager who is available 24/7 are all inc cluded in this program. The Humanity Exchange can also arrange Spanish classes, help e you plan onward travel, and coordinate with your c college or university so can obtain course credit.
Colors of Colombia
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Santa Marta - Colombia Cost: $3,500 per person, based on sharing a room m Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com
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Ecuador
Resident Appropriate Technology Design/Development
Organization: Sacred Suenos Location: 2-3 hour hike up a mountainside from the village of Vilcabamba Cost: $120 per month Duration: 3+ months Age: 18 Contact: sacredsuenos@wildmail.com Learn more: www.sacredsuenos.com Special skills: Some engineering background would be preferred. Reasonable practical skills, or a willingness to learn them, respecting the type of activity to be attempted are required.
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Details: While most mornings will be spent working alongside the Regenerative Rural Workers, the rest of the time will be spent researching and developing techniques and technologies that can be reproduced by Andean farmers and can offer a sustainable solution to a difficult problem. Projects include, but are not limited to the following: Value added food processing; Manual and Ram water pumps; Water storage; Shelter; Pasture management; Reforestation Earthworks; Micropower; and Bicycle powered appliances.
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Cost: $75 per week Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 15-60 Contact: info@fundecoipa.com Learn more: www.fundecoipa.com Special skills: Spanish is an advantage, but not a requirement Details: This volunteer placement provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the Amazon, its flora and fauna, while learning about the language and culture of indigenous communities. Volunteers can participate in a series of ongoing projects that include teaching in local schools, traditional farming, construction, trail creation, reforestation, building tourist infrastructure, nursery work, medicinal garden and other community activities. This project was initiated by the villagers of Arutam to serve as a platform for addressing the social, cultural and economical difficulties faced by its members and neighboring communities. The aim of the project is to create community development in the indigenous communities of Pastaza based on sustainable use of the biological resources and cultural norms.
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Cost: $300, plus $100 for the Introduction to Regenerative Andean Design Duration: 3 months, with options to extend Age: 18 Contact: sacredsuenos@wildmail.com Learn more: www.sacredsuenos.com Special skills: A passion for the project is essential for this leadership position. Prior managerial or organizational skills are preferred. Anyone without a significant background in Permaculture principals must participate in an Introduction to Regenerative Andean Design course which will be held during the week prior to the internship, which will take place during the second week of September or the second week of January. Details: Interns work alongside the Regenerative Rural Worker volunteers, but on top of this, they will: list and prioritize all the tasks necessary for the maintenance and reasonable development of the farm; organize, train and direct the volunteers to accomplish these tasks; manage supplies and resources; be in charge of keeping the kitchen and tool rooms sufficiently supplied to support all the residents and their projects; and participate in general farm meetings. Interns will meet with one or more directors on a regular basis to discuss projects and tasks, as well as any other issues that may come up.
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Learn more: www.ecuadorvolunteer.org Details: This project seeks to reforest desolate are with plants and eas trees from the primary forest with the hope that bir and wildlife will rds return to the region and repopulate the area. The to own of Mindo depends on ecotourism and supports this project, not only to improve the o environment, but also to improve the standard of li iving. The main volunteer activities for this project are collection of seeds and plants in f the primary forest, maintenance of seedbeds, const truction of new seedbeds, planting seeds, maintaining the garden, o organizing excursions so the children can learn about the environment an ecology, nd preparation of materials for the children with recyc cled items (paper, cardboard, bottles) and teaching them to make card from recycled ds paper, decorations, puppets and other items.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Teaching Rural Schools for the Andean Bear Project
Organization: Andean Bear Foundation / Espiritu del Bosque Location: A tiny village within a cloud forest clearing in the Intag Region of Northern Ecuador Cost: $560 for 4 weeks including accommodation and food Duration: 4 to 24 weeks per volunteer Age: 24 Contact: bearsecuador@yahoo.co.uk quote reference DEVMAsst Learn more: www.andeanbear.org Special skills: Spanish language at least basic level; teaching qualification & experience Details: Experienced primary teachers are needed in the Andes Mountains in Northern Ecuador in an area of beautiful cloud forests which are home to the Andean Bear. The project is looking for teachers who can design and teach course modules which can also be implemented in the future by less-experienced volunteers. Your volunteer work will strengthen relations between the local community and the Andean Bear Conservation Project. The primary schools want help in teaching English and computing. If youre Spanish is good enough you can also teach other subjects. Andean Bear Foundation wants you to include environmental education in your classes and you can also make an impact by encouraging better nutrition and dental health. The one college in the area also welcomes assistance.
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those wanting to go into teaching or environmental education as a career l to gain some experience.
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scientists have been conducting research at Bilsa. The scientists spend about 17-20 days a month at the reserve and during that period it is possible for volunteers to assist and learn from them. Volunteer activities in this reserve include reforestation and station maintenance, nature hikes, etc.
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selling goods and performing to make a living. The Street Children Program in Ecuador focuses on giving these children some enjoyment in their lives. This program is popular with the children and their families as it gives them opportunities and perspectives on life they would never have otherwise been provided with. Work consists of teaching basic school lessons, playing with the children, providing medical support and introducing them to activities (such as painting) that they would never otherwise have a chance to do.
Hospital in Ambato
Organization: Greenheart Travel Location: Ambato, about 2.5 hours south of Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Cost: $1,290 for 4 weeks Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@greenhearttravel.org Learn more: www.cci-exchange.com Special skills: Experience and/or education in medicine is required; exceptions may be made on a case by case basis for those interested in exploring a career in medicine, but who have limited experience. An intermediate level of Spanish is required. Spanish lessons are available in Quito prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee. Volunteers must submit a full resume with application for this project.
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Cost: $1,290 for 4 weeks Duration: 2 to 12 week Age: 18 ks Contact: info@greenhearttravel.org Learn more: www.cci-exchange.com Special skills: Volunteers must enjoy working outdoors and must be e interested in working with the animals. Experience and/or education in biology, ecology or environmental studies is helpful but not required. Basic Spanish is helpful. Spanish lessons are available in Quito prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee. Details: The rescue center is home to many exotic animals that are endangered specially at the or have been rescued from trafficking situations, es borders and in the Amazon. The staff tries to educa the community on ate the dangers of animal trafficking and how that can lead to possible h extinction. Volunteers will be working directly with the animals as well as with the groups of weekly visitors. Duties include feeding the animals, wers, constructing toys building and cleaning cages, planting trees and flow and exhibits, acting as a guide for English speaking tourists that come to g tour the Rescue Center, and working with the other staff and volunteers r on a variety of projects that are needed. Host family accommodation and y all meals are included in the program.
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Amazon Conservation
Organization: Greenforce Location: Between the Andes and the Amazon Cost: $1,900+ Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 17 Contact: info@greenforce.org Learn more: www.greenforce.org Details: The biology station is located at the thin band of tropical forest that connects the Andes Mountains with the Amazon. The station is part of 2,000 hectares of reserves and forest in which volunteers contribute directly to its progress and success. Assist with important scientific and ecological research; turn left and explore the Andes, turn right and enter the Amazon rainforest. Enjoy the remoteness of the station by canoeing to neighboring tribes and experience the indigenous cultures of the communities there. Visit the home of a local shaman and witness rituals and customs like never before. Contrast these cultural endeavors with the adventure of exhilarating whitewater rafting or a night hiking through the rainforest as you listen to the cacophony of sounds as the woods come alive.
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South America
Island Conservation
Organization: Kaya Responsible Travel Location: Living in the busy coastal city of Guayaquil and working on a nearby island. Cost: $1,270+ Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18-80 Contact: info@kayavolunteer.com Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com Special skills: A moderate level of fitness to conduct manual labour is essential. Any additional construction skills are an invaluable bonus. Details: Restore the neglected Santay Island and help it become a protected ecological paradise and wildlife sanctuary. This project is supported by volunteers working for responsible development of the island, firstly as a protected ecosystem and second as an eco-tourism attraction. It needs people willing to do hands-on conservation work, but also needs those with special skills such as education, promotion, marketing, web and brochure design. There are many facets to this project and a wide range of skills and interests are needed. Volunteers are expected to take an active role in the field trips to the island, assist with assigned duties which may include working on habitat development, and participating in the estuary program educating children on the environment.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Volunteer Abroad and Learn to Surf
Organization: Eco Surf Volunteers Location: Ecuador Cost: $1,395 Duration: 10 days Age: 18-35 Contact: info@ecosurfvolunteers.org Learn more: www.ecosurfvolunteers.org Special skills: Hard worker and a positive attitude Details: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and the warm tropical ocean of an historic Ecuadorian fishing village while the friendliest of locals invite you into their lives. Eco Surf is a volunteer abroad program, a cultural immersion program and an international surf camp all rolled into one! Volunteer with their English Through Art program that teaches local children English in a creative and engaging atmosphere, while local surfers teach you to surf on their favorite nearby waves. Learn to Salsa dance, enjoy a beach party bonfire, meet indigenous tribes and explore a wildlife sanctuary - all with Eco Surf Volunteers.
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Andean village. Projects mix construction, agriculture/farming, and ecological and environmental work. Participants actively explore a megadiverse World Heritage Site (the Galapagos) and the diverse beauty and culture of Ecuadors Andean highlands. Recreation includes snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and hiking; treks to waterfalls and lakes; visits to marketplaces and thermal baths; and learning about folkloric music, arts, and dancing.
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Reptile and Amphibian Ecological International: reptilesandamphibians.org Sacred Suenos (permaculture): www.sacredsuenos.com/who.html Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org Yanapuma Foundation (community development): www.yanapuma.org
Guyana
Guyana Teaching Year
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Guyana mostly rural placements, but a few urban Cost: $2,000 subsidized by Ministry of Education of Guyana Duration: One Year (Departure in early August) Age: 18-74 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English Speaker, Bachelors Degree Details: Volunteers have been requested to teach chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics. Volunteers will be placed at schools located in the deep riverain/hinterland and in the southern savannah region. Both regions are relatively undeveloped and have few trained teachers, and both serve primarily Amerindians populations. Volunteers may also teach at schools in larger towns in the riverain area. These schools serve students from all six of Guyana's main ethnic groups. They are larger and have more trained teachers on staff than schools in more rural areas. Volunteers might also serve in larger high schools in coastal cities such as Georgetown, Guyana's capital. Volunteers will live in teacher housing near their schools provided by the Ministry of education. You will be given contacts of individuals and families who serve as a support network at their site, although you will find many Guyanese eager to be your friend. Other organizations offering projects in Guyana: Florida Association for Volunteer Action in the Caribbean and the Americas: www.favaca.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org Operation Renewed Hope Christ (medical & disaster relief): www.operationrenewedhope.org World Hope International: www.worldhope.org Youth Challenge Australia: www.youthchallenge.org.au
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Paraguay
Paraguar, Paraguay - Health
Organization: Amigos de las Amricas Location: Paraguar in southern Paraguay Cost: $4,000+ Duration: 8 weeks Age: 16 by Sept. 1st Contact: info@amigoslink.org Learn more: www.amigoslink.org Details: Volunteers will facilitate educational activities 3 times a week with youth age 5-12. Topics include nutrition, cultural exchange, physical education and dental hygiene. Special emphasis will be placed on environmental health issues. Help is also needed running a 2 week long day camp for children during the Paraguayan winter break.
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Other organizations offering projects in Paraguay: ACDI/VOCA (agriculture, finance, community development): www.acdivoca.org Amigos de las Amricas: www.amigoslink.org Fauna Paraguay: www.faunaparaguay.com Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org Kiva Fellows Program: www.kiva.org Para La Tierra (conservation): www.paralatierra.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org
Peru
Teaching English to the Disadvantaged
Organization: Espaanglisch Language School Location: Coastal city of Trujillo, Peru Cost: None Duration: 1+ months Age: 18 Contact: davidmercedes@espaanglisch.com Learn more: www.espaanglisch.com Details: Espaanglisch is a small organization that needs volunteer English language teachers to work with disadvantaged children and adults. English is a very important skill for a Peruvian to have. The school helps out those who otherwise wouldnt have access to English language education. They look for volunteers that know how to work hard and relax even harder! You will work an average of a few hours a day, and are otherwise encouraged to get out there and soak up the Peruvian culture... whether that be through Spanish, salsa, the cuisine or just having a chat with a local fisherman! It is especially important that a volunteer be creative and confident, not afraid to work independently. There is no charge to volunteer, simply cover your own living costs.
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Reconstruction of Pisco
Organization: Pisco Sin Fronteras Location: Pisco Cost: $5 per day Duration: Unknown Age: 18 Contact: piscosinfronteras@hotmail.com Learn more: www.piscosinfronteras.org Special Skills: Construction, Carpen ntry, Plumbing, Electricty, teaching English, a big hear and the rt willingness to get things done. Detail: Eighty percent of the city of P Pisco was destroyed by an earthquake, leaving m most of the inhabitants without homes and killing over 600 g people, Its been three years since the disaster and in e places it looks like it just happened. A from the Aid state has not been as anyone had expe ected. Please be part of the reconstruction of this beau utiful city and change peoples lives. Volunteers make a difference. You r really dont need certain skills. You will learn from both other experie enced volunteers and the local community. This is a great way to get to know o the culture of Peru.
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Asociacion Incawasi also works to ensure their right to an education and healthcare, and provide them with the means to build a better future. Volunteers actively participate in the development of their creative, behavioral and intellectual skills, and are more than welcome to participate in all other aspects of the organization's work (fund-raising, communication, website, etc.) Meals and accommodations are included in the center itself for a total immersion in the local culture and language.
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teaching with one other person. This is a fantastic o opportunity for anyone looking to gain experience teaching or who enjoys spending time with children. Its a fun but challenging job benefiti countless people. ing
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implementation of this project. A high level of Spanish is necessary as this will be the teaching language. You will be teaching the children in the afternoons and on Saturday mornings. Attempts are made to use interactive teaching methods that enable the children to learn concepts in a fun environment something lacking in their school experience in general.
Incawasi - Peru
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Cajamarca, a beautiful colonial city in Perus northern highlands Cost: $300 per month includes a donation to fund the project plus volunteers accommodation and meals from Monday to Friday. Duration: 2 weeks minimum, 2 month+ preferred Age: 18, kids welcome with a parent after prior consultation. Contact: incawsi@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: www.incawasi.org.pe Special skills: Conversational level of Spanish and preferably some background in working/volunteering with children. Details: Incawasi is a non-profit organization whose objective is to improve the educational, social and nutritional situation of children from
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and community life in the nearby rural villages in northern Peru. This project has a special need for equine dentistry work as well as for a farrier. For horse-savvy volunteers seeking a fulfilling experience, this could be the unique opportunity that allows you to make a difference in your own life and in the lives of some very special animals desperately in need of your help.
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Torre Torre
Organization: Tinkuy Peru Location: Huancayo Cost: $560 for one month Duration: 1+ week Age: 17 Contact: Leonciotinoco@hotmail.com Learn more: www.tinkuyperu.com Special skills: Experience in construction, marketing or business would be invaluable, but is not required Details: Located in one of the poorest regions of Huancayo the captivating natural beauty of Torre Torre (a labyrinth of hiking trails among a beautiful vista of natural sandstone pillars) seems somewhat out of place given its impoverished surroundings. But with your help there is hope that these unfortunate surroundings will gradually become a thing of the past. The ultimate aim of this project is to bring tourism, and the prosperity that accompanies it to the area. Given that Huancayo is the closest major city to Lima with good transport links and also
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boasts an impressive array of tourist attractions, th is certainly his realizable. However, due to the direction of governm ment resources and the general perception of the city as a Mecca for com mmerce and little else, it has struggled to create a big tourist market. As su uch, substantial work needs to be carried out to put Torre Torre on the m map. The most pressing concerns for the project involve the construction of access paths and the f promotion of Torre Torre. As such, any experience in construction, marketing or business would be invaluable to the p program.
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and happy individuals. All that is required of you is to come to work with a smile, a positive attitude and a genuine willingness to help.
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different schools in the community where English is either not being taught, or not being taught effectively. English is a potential tool in empowering the community to improve its quality of life. Help be responsible for the success of this project and expand your own skills during this rewarding experience.
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South America
equity among men and women particularly in the role of reproductive health and labor rights and economic activity that is profitable and sustainable. NeVo proposed a diagnosis of the key areas of development in order to analyze the current situation in regard to each of the different fields, defining the major problems and possible solutions. This project has volunteers as its foundation; they are responsible for its success and continued existence, and they provide the physical and intellectual energy that make it an effective project.
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placed in community schools, public schools or orphanage schools. Many of the people volunteers teach know only very basic English, therefore at least a basic level of Spanish will be an advantage on this program. Naturally a volunteer's Spanish will improve over the course of their volunteering, but it is highly recommended that the volunteer take advantage of the Spanish lessons offered by the programs staff in Peru.
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and is run by a staff of volunteer teachers and social workers. Children are given the opportunity to voluntarily drop in and participate in a variety of creative classes and workshops; learning valuable skills which include carpentry, handicrafts, shoe repair, cooking, music, arts and English. Children also come by for homework support from volunteers and local staff.
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view of the Andes Mountains and the surrounding valley this is a project for someone who really wants to get away from it all. The home is looking for creative volunteers to assist their work in a truly unique environment that aims to provide positive long-term benefits to the regions social and environmental problems.
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education in counseling, and/or teaching is helpful, but not required. Details: Located in beautiful and historic Cuzco, this shelter provides care to orphaned boys and those who have been victims of abuse and neglect. The shelter provides for the basic needs of the children, including medical and psychological care administered by professionals. Volunteers will work as assistants wherever they are most needed, play with the children and help to care for them. They will also help the boys to get ready for school, prepare meals, and organize arts and recreational activities. You are also encouraged to be creative and to bring any of your own personal skills to work with the students. Included in the program are host family accommodations, two meals a day six days a week and medical insurance coverage. Spanish lessons are available for an additional fee prior to beginning the project.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Home for Teenage Mothers
Organization: Experiential Learning International Special Skills: High Intermediate Spanish Language Skills Location: Cusco Cost: $885+ Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Special skills: Highly proficient in Spanish and volunteers must love children and enjoy working with them. Details: Statistically, 1 in 4 Peruvian mothers are under the age of 18. Many of these young mothers are the victims of sexual abuse and have been abandoned by their families. ELI works with an organization in Cusco devoted to providing shelter for young mothers while educating them and giving them the life skills they need to provide the best care possible for their children. All the mothers complete their secondary education and receive vocational training as well as training on child health issues, the importance of hygiene, and other child development topics.
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Conservation/Wildlife Project
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: Cusco and Sacred Valley Cost: $472 for 1 week Duration: 1 to 24 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: There are two options for this program. The first is to volunteer at a zoo in Cusco, assisting with cleaning and feeding. This is a small zoo which also houses injured animals. These are taken in and rehabilitated to go back into the wild. The second option is to work at Manu National Park in the jungle region of Peru in the Sacred Valley. At the jungle project, volunteers may assist in orchid planting, bamboo removal, teaching at the local school, and creating an inventory of species. Please note that for the Jungle Project volunteers will complete one week of Spanish lessons in Cusco before heading to Sacred Valley for the remainder of their stay.
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Contact: missions@fimrc.org Learn more: www.fimrc.org/fellowship Special Skills: This program is specially focused for students interested in health professions. Details: Gain intensive daily clinical experience while becoming immersed in an underserved community! Fellows will be based in a public hospital, performing rotations alongside Peruvian medical students. During their stay, Fellows will learn about the Peruvian medical system in substantial depth by forming relationships with staff and patients. The program provides not only a valuable experience for resumes or medical school applications, but will expand participants knowledge and perspectives on healthcare. Opportunities also exist to interact with patients on a daily basis and scrub in for surgeries. Fellows will make a difference by implementing preventative health campaigns in close collaboration with field staff. Fellows will travel to community centers in the city, as well as rural towns in the Peruvian highlands to promote community health initiatives.
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Other organizations offering projects in Peru: Awaiting Angels: www.awaitingangels.org Cross-Cultural Solutions: www.crossculturalsolutions.org FairMail (teach photography to underprivileged teens producing cards to earn money): www.fairmail.info Fauna Forever: www.faunaforever.org Institute For Field Research Expeditions: www.ifrevolunteers.org International Volunteer HQ: www.volunteerhq.org Kids Alive International: www.kidsalive.org La Casa De Mayten: www.volunteersouthamerica.net Mximum Level: www.maximonivel.com People and Places: travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk Perus Challenge (Highly Recommended in the Best Volunteer Organization category by Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009): www.peruschallenge.com VolunTraveler (placement agency helping small organizations in Peru get noticed and find voluntary hands) www.voluntraveler.com
Uruguay
Promocin de Derechos Humanos (Human Rights)
Organization: Academia Uruguay Location: Montevideo, Uruguay Cost: Free if volunteer takes 3+ weeks of Spanish lessons with the organization Duration: 1+ months Age: 16 Contact: info@academiauruguay.com Learn more: academiauruguay.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish Details: This project promotes the work of individuals or other organizations that are in the human rights field, striving to strengthen democracy and enabling equal opportunities for everyone. They need people to help them create, organize and develop new projects. Some of the activities that are coming will include: an exhibition of photographs of the time of the Latin American dictatorships in the 70s, workshops about democracy and human rights and their plans to expand their actions to the interior of the country. This program is especially enriching for people interested in social movements, activism and who would like to learn about the recent history of Latin America and Uruguay.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Laughing Against All Odds
Organization: Academia Uruguay Location: Montevideo Cost: Free if volunteer takes 3+ weeks of Spanish lessons with the organization Duration: 2+ months Age: 18 Contact: info@academiauruguay.com Learn more: academiauruguay.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish, experience working with children and a high degree of emotional strength to face tough situations Details: The premise of this project is that laughter and joy do heal. Each day a group of volunteers goes to a childrens hospital to cheer up hospitalized kids. They use all sort of tricks to make the kids feel better and help them have a faster recovery. The group has a special room in the hospital where they organize costume catwalks, hand puppet plays, paint, play board games, etc. When kids arent able to leave their room, clowns and jugglers visit them making their day brighter. Everything is carried out by volunteers, so any help and ability you can contribute is of great help.
Future Building
Organization: Academia Uruguay Location: Around different neighborhoods in Montevideo Cost: Free with 3+ weeks of Spanish lessons Duration: 2 days (one weekend) Age: 18 Contact: info@academiauruguay.com Learn more: academiauruguay.com Special skills: An intermediate level of Spanish Details: This project aims to improve the standard of life of those who live in the most impoverished areas of Montevideo by building a very simple wooden home for a family that has been living in a ramshackle house. Homes are assembled with any material available (cardboard, wood, metal, leaves, etc) and not comfortable enough to protect residence from winter, rain or humidity. After the project has attended the most urgent needs in the settlement they will also build a community center that would be run by the neighborhood. Volunteers may also offer counseling on how to address problems such as contacting the authorities to get electricity or a fresh water supply for the neighborhood.
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Other organizations offering projects in Uruguay: Karumb (sea turtle & marine biodiversity): www.karumbe.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org
Venezuela
Youth Care, Community and Conservation
Organization: Fundacion Aldeas de Pas Location: Santa Elena de Uairen Cost: $260 per week Duration: 1 week to 1 year Age: 8 (with parent) up to 100 Contact: mail@peacevillages.org Learn more: www.peacevillages.org Details: The Peace Villages Foundation (PVF) is a sustainable grassroots NGO based in Santa Elena de Uairen, Venezuela, near the borders with Brazil and Guyana in South America. PVF is independent from political, religious or business interests. The Peace Villages Foundation is exclusively financed and operated by volunteers. Share the values of peace, justice and tolerance, fundamentally focusing on the preservation of indigenous cultures and the empowerment of young people while valuing local knowledge and working with cultural sensitivity. You will assist local people in carrying out objectives they deem important. Volunteer opportunities are truly the microcosm of a world where people join together giving priority to improving life for humanity and promoting a Culture of Peace. Editors Note: Peace village offers a diverse range of volunteer opportunities for families available at one site. If you are traveling with kids and looking for a program that introduces them to give-back travel, then visit the Peace Village website to learn more and watch their video on family projects. Other organizations offering projects in Venezuela: Adventure Heart: www.adventureheart.com Ecoteer: www.ecoteer.com Florida Association for Volunteer Action in the Caribbean and the Americas: www.favaca.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org International YMCA: www.internationalymca.org
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that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends. ~ Maya Angelou
Bahamas
Animal Shelter and Veterinary Clinic
Organization: The Bahamas Humane Society Location: The island of New Providence, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Exuma and Abaco.
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Contact: info@wilddolphinproject.org Learn more: www.wilddolphinproject.org Special Skills: Good swimmer/snorkeler Details: This is your chance to help with amazing long-term research on wild Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. As a participant with The Wild Dolphin Project, you will help with research tasks such as dolphin watch and data entry. You will be able to snorkel with wild dolphins as well as snorkel on interesting underwater reefs and shipwrecks. Learn all about these amazing, intelligent creatures and help with the continued research as you learn more about their lives, In their world, on their terms. All meals and accommodations are included for the duration of the trip aboard a 62 catamaran (live aboard).
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Belize
Furry Felines for Fuzzy Feelings
Organization: PAW (Protect Animal Welfare) Cat Sanct tuary and Humane Society Location: Caye Caulker Cost: None Duration: day or more Contact: pawanimalsanctuarybelize@yahoo.com Learn more: www.pawanimalsanctuarybelize.com Special skills: The desire to do more. Details: Why not make your next vacation a worthy cause and help the animals at PAW? For a small program fee & 5 hours of volunteer work you will be provided with accommodations in their Jaguar Beach Cabana in the sleepy fishing village of Caye Caulker (pronounced Key Korker). They also welcome day to day volunteers if you are planning on vacationing on Caye Caulker and would like to stop by to spend some time with the animals or st helping with all the chores. Volunteers are needed to assis with animal care duties, public relation, fundraising, designing and im mplementing humane education programs and more. Editors note: Four years ago PAWs Founder, Madi Collins left her ildhood home of corporate life in the United States and returned to her chi Belize. She arrived with her three cats. Madi was immedia ately distraught by the cruelty and conditions that local animals were subj jected to. PAW grew from her combination of patience, raw tenacity, busi iness-savvy and past volunteer experience at animal shelters in New York, proving one , person can bring about a better world for hundreds of ani imals.
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North America
Organization: Kaya Responsible Travel n Location: The busy market town of San Ignacio in Belizes tropical hills Cost: $1,270+ Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18-80 Contact: info@kayavolunteer.com Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com ng Special skills: Confidence speaking and presentin in groups Details: This project was founded in response to th increasing he evidence of child maltreatment and other difficult c circumstances impacting the Belizean family, such as child abuse, adolescent nd pregnancy, school dropouts, crime and violence, an juvenile delinquency. In an effort to ensure the rights of our children, the project r instituted a comprehensive program that integrates school-based and s community-based child abuse prevention and inter rvention strategies. Volunteers will work with a leading nongovernmen organization in ntal advocating for the rights of children and families in Belize. In this n program, volunteers help to promote the project's m mission to break the generational cycle of child abuse and neglect.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Family planning and HIV Education
Organization: Kaya Responsible Travel es Location: The busy market town of San Ignacio in Belize tropical hills Cost: $1,270+ Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18-80 Contact: info@kayavolunteer.com Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com post natal care, Special skills: None, but knowledge of HIV/AIDS, pre/p youth education and Spanish language skills are all useful l Details: The HIV/AIDS rate in Belize is the highest in Ce entral America. Educating youth is vital to ensure the health of younger ge enerations. Additionally, there is a growing epidemic of teenage pregn nancy. It is crucial to educate and empower young women about the c choices they have. Volunteers can prepare reproductive and sexual hea educational alth materials. They conduct educational sessions in primary s schools, secondary schools and youth workshops in community ce enters for teenagers. There is also a chance for them to get involved in the ctions. production of educational radio shows and drama produc Volunteers can also get involved in prenatal and postnata care al workshops and parenting lessons.
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Other organizations offering projects in Belize: Barton Creek Outpost: www.bartoncreekoutpost.com Belize Audubon Society: www.belizeaudubon.org Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk Maya Mountain Research Farm: www.mmrfbz.org SeaAid: www.seaaid.org Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die VISIONS British Virgin Islands
Organization: VISIONS Service Adventures Location: Tortola Cost: $3,500+ Duration: 3 or 4 weeks, and customized programs Age: Teens, customized programs for all ages Contact: info@VisionsServiceAdventures.com Learn more: www.VisionsServiceAdventures.com Details: In the Caribbean Virgin Islands, VISIONS groups work on community projects in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, National Parks Trust, Red Cross, and Disaster Relief Services. Construction is the focushousing from the ground up, public buildings, structures, and trails for the National Parks Trust. VISIONS also works with public school summer programs, the elderly and subsistence farmers. The classic Caribbean beaches and coves are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. VISIONS programs for teens blend ambitious service, cultural immersion and adventure. Teens get to know the people whose lives they impact and return home a more confident global citizen with genuine appreciation for our multicultural world. Other organizations offering projects in British Virgin Islands: Adventist Volunteer Service: www.adventistvolunteers.org Lifeworks International (service adventures for teens): www.lifeworks-international.com Reef Check: reefcheck.org Virgin Islands National Park: www.virgin.islands.national-park.com
Canada
Landmark Wall - Strawbale Interpretive Wall
Organization: Cochrane Ecological Institute Location: Alberta Cost: $10 per day with shared accommodations Duration: 1+ month Age: 20 Contact: cei@nucleus.com Learn more: www.ceinst.org Special skills: Not required, but being good at photography, art and/or research is appreciated Details: Building the Landmark Wall which will be a work of art 400m long by 2.5 m high of straw-bale construction (straw bales covered
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in cement). Set within the wall will be portals, large tempered glass windows through which visitors can view the free ranging buffalo, elk, deer, moose and coyotes of the CEIor, if they happen to be rehabilitating them, bears, skunks, badgers. Between the portals are large expanses of cement. They have set some examples of rocks, fossils, bones, in the cement of the wall and will have bird houses, solitary bee habitats, bat hibernacula. Cement is the canvas. Volunteers will also paint replicas of rock art and indent examples of petroglyphs all copied from existing examples both local and international.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Social Initiative: Enlarging Happy Trails Pet R Resort
Organization: Cochrane Ecological Institute Location: Alberta Cost: $10 per day with shared accommodations Duration: 1+ month Age: 20 org Contact: cei@nucleus.com Learn more: www.ceinst.o Special skills: Should like dogs and cats, construction sk kills are helpful Details: The programmes of the CEI could not be undert taken without funding from the proceeds of the CEIs social initiative Ha appy Tails Pet Resort. If they can enlarge the kennel slightly theyll make more money e and will be able to do more conservation work. Therefore, the intention , of the CEI to enlarge the existing Happy Tails facility by b building 10 more runs, a storage enclosure and a small chalet. During this time, CEI g will expect that volunteers will participate in the construc ction work. In doing so, you will learn how buildings are built, somethin that is useful ng for everyone to know!
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Special skills: Clean drivers license njured wildlife back Details: The successful release of orphaned and in into the wild is dependent upon two points. Point o is that they are one healthy, fit and ready for release. Point two is that t there is suitable habitat available for their release where they won't come into conflict at with people. For Point two you need suitable habita (example: you cannot release pika and badgers in the same habita knowledge of at), present and future land use, suitable forage, knowle edge of prey availability, predator pressure, land ownership, lan owner support for nd reintroduction and government jurisdiction. Little or no research has been undertaken for point two. This project strives to remedy that lack knowledge.
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Costa Rica
Domestic Animal Rescue and Education
Organization: Asociacin El Arca de Noe Cost: None Duration: 1 week Age: 18 Email: arcadenoe.pa@gmail.com Learn more: www.acradenoecr.com Details: This desperately underfinanced sanctuary has a need for Spanish speaking volunteers to help with socializing animals, health checkups (a good learning experience for veterinary students), facility maintenance and animal care. They have dogs, horses, a pig, farm birds and more. Volunteers also may help chool children. with a spay/neuter campaign and the education of local sc Contact Arca de Noe in advance to discuss what volunteer work is r needed and what you can do. Editors note: Asociacin El Arca de Noe (Noahs Ark could provide k) a bed and meals for two people, but keep in mind that the money to do so e comes out of the pocket of the president. Please pay your own expenses and pack your own food to take out to the sanctuary each day.
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North America
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Various rural communities Cost: $4,990 Duration: One Year (Departure in early January) Age: Any with bachelors degree Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English speaker, Bachelors degree Details: Upon completion of orientation, volunteers begin their teaching assignments. Volunteers serve as English teachers at public primary schools throughout the country. Responsibilities will include teaching classes (usually for first through sixth grades), attending monthly meetings with a regional supervisor and developing lesson plans and assessments. You may also be asked to co-teach with a Costa Rican counterpart, organize adult classes, form English clubs in host communities, and otherwise help with your community's particular educational needs. Housing is with local Costa Rican families who receive compensation for providing volunteers with food and lodging. The host families are chosen by the WorldTeach Field Staff and take part because they enjoy the cultural exchange of hosting a volunteer. Many families host for several years. Being part of a family gives you a place in the community and a great opportunity to learn about the culture and enhance your Spanish.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Reception at The Childrens Eternal Rainforest
Organization: La Asociacin Conservacionista de Monteverde (ACM) Location: Children's Eternal Rainforest Cerro Plano (2km from Santa Elena and Monteverde), Cost: $16-18 a day for accommodation with all meals Duration: Preferably at least a month, half time Age: 18 Contact: info@acmcr.org Learn more: www.acmcr.org Special skills: Spoken Spanish and English, working with the public Handling cash (colones), some food handling Details: The Children's Eternal Rainforest is the largest private reserve in Costa Rica and has been funded largely by school fundraisers around the world. You can contribute to keeping the reserve going by running the reception area in their new shop/booking centre. The job involves: answering inquiries about the protected areas and the services available, selling products in the shop (books, clothes, cds/dvds), backup for the cafe (coffee, cold drinks, cakes), etc.
Environmental Educator
Organization: La Asociacin Conservacionista de Monteverde (ACM) Location: Bajo del Tigre, Monteverde, 5 minute walk from public bus Cost: $16-18 a day for accommodation with all meals Duration: 1+ months, half-time Age: 18 Contact: info@acmcr.org Learn more: www.acmcr.org
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Special skills: Curriculum design, developing tea aching materials, teaching Spanish ntenance of private Details: The next generation is critical to the main reserves in Monteverde. As part work for the Childr rens Eternal Rainforest you will help inspire youth to protect the important ese conservation areas. The work involves developing e environmental education programs and materials for teaching elem mentary school age children. It is based in an environmental education classroom at the n reserve with internet access. The Children's Eternal Rainforest is the funded largely by largest private reserve in Costa Rica and has been f school fundraisers around the world.
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Details: Volunteers keep the CFS both beautiful and functional. A volunteers day may include working on the reforestation project, caring for plants in the greenhouse or gardens, maintaining trails, painting buildings, or assisting in environmental education classes. Past volunteers with special skills have helped to network our computers, taught music lessons, yoga classes, made brochures and films for our school or painted beautiful murals on our campus. All applicants must be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school. They provide homestays with local school families as well as extensive orientation, trips, tours and Spanish classes. Volunteering guests mostly work with the Land Manager, who is Costa Rican, and has worked with volunteers of all Spanish-speaking abilities for a number of years.
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Organization: La Asociacin Conservacionista de Monteverde (ACM) Location: San Gerardo Field Station, Children's Eternal Rainforest Cost: $32 per day full board Age: 18 Contact: info@acmcr.org Learn more: www.acmcr.org Special skills: Energy system design, appropriate technology or fundraising Details: San Gerardo field station is an important source of income for the running of the reserve/Childrens Eternal Rainforest. Currently, lighting is powered by generator and fuel has to be brought in by quad bike. There is no refrigeration, drying facilities or hot water, but there is a partially built hydro station. This project involves designing, implementing and running off-grid energy systems for San Gerardo Field Station and writing grant applications. San Gerardo is a one and a half hour walk from nearest transport.
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while doing something meaningful for endangered sea turtles. You might even discover a new career!
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On trails that wind through the forest, classes emba on journeys of ark exploration and discovery. There are few school set ttings where children so completely integrate experience, observation and formal learning d into their lives.
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Organization: Canadian Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC) Location: Cao Palma Biological Station, Costa Rica Cost: $250 per week Duration: Open Age: 18 Contact: info@coterc.org Learn more: www.coterc.org Special skills: Must be physically fit as terrain is difficult and may be flooded. Details: Terrestrial and arboreal mammals play an important role in rainforest maintenance and regeneration. Yet, many mammal species are endangered due to habitat loss and hunting, and are sensitive to poorly managed ecotourism and habitat disturbance related to human activities. Understanding the species of mammals present, their population size, and the habitat they utilize is critical for conservation management decision making. Program goals include: 1) Increasing the knowledge of mammal richness, ecology and population trends 2) Enhancing the knowledge and appreciation of local wildlife diversity, and promote social and environmental benefits of wildlife conservation 3) Provide research opportunities, and share information with national and international biologists
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Marine and Sea Turtle Conservation
Organization: uVolunteer Location: On the Pacific or Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica Cost: $765 for the first 2 weeks; $126 each additional week; uVolunteer provides three meals daily. Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvolunteer.org Special skills: No prior knowledge or experience is necessary. Details: During your uVolunteer Turtle Conservation project in Costa Rica, you will be helping an endangered species of turtles flourish by protecting the nests from all predators. The main objective of this project is to protect the turtle nests from human poachers, animal predators, and more recently from the erosion of the beach. Turtle Conservation Projects are a great way to get hands-on experience in marine and sea turtle conservation. Volunteers applying should enjoy manual work, handling wildlife and working unusual hours; as turtle nesting occurs during the night.
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Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: Volunteers will work with Leatherback turtles between January and July and Olive Ridley Turtles between August and December. These programs will give you the chance to make an important contribution to the preservation of these species. This includes assisting NGOs and local communities who carry out conservation work. You will also gain firsthand knowledge about Costa Rica's biodiversity and its culture. In addition, they also offer non-turtle projects for longer-term volunteers who may participate in more than one project during their time in the program. These include working with eco-cooperatives, at national parks and teaching English in local schools.
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engage in hands-on conservation work. Details: Based at a private ecological reserve in the rainforests of northern Costa Rica, this project cares for rescued animals, as well as work in ongoing conservation projects. In addition, a womens cooperative makes products from recycled materials and banana paper to learn skills that help generate a small income and increase self-esteem and self-sufficiency. Volunteers are needed to help in the Animal Rescue Center building cages, feeding and observing animals and administering general care. Volunteers will also help with a variety of conservation projects on the reserve including planting trees, digging ponds and gardening. There is also the option to teach English in the local school or help the womens group.
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transfer to the safety of a hatchery. In addition volunteers have the opportunity to participate in the release of hundreds of hatchlings into the sea. Something else to keep you busy is working in the nearby elementary school with students. They enjoy art classes, English, tutoring, environmental education and sports. This season project is available to volunteers during Oct, Nov and Dec.
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Organization: Caribbean Conservation Corp eld Location: Tortuguero at the Phipps Biological Fie Station Cost: $1,599 Duration: 3 days to 1 month Age: 18, or 14 with parent or guardian Contact: resprog@cccturtle.org Learn more: www.cccturtle.org Special skills: None, but volunteer must be good physical condition. Details: Join one of the Caribbean Conservation Corporations (CCC) Research Participant Volunteer Programs and discover a very unique travel and research programs and experience an outstanding opportunity to see the depth of CCCs research and to be a part of it! Participant volunteers have helped CCC's research and conservation efforts in e Tortuguero since the early 1950s. You can continue that tradition by assisting CCC's biologists study Leatherback sea tur rtles, Green sea turtles and Tortuguero's bird species. By joining one of CC CC's Research Programs you will financially support their research efforts. Participants h stay at facilities on-site at the Phipps Biological Fie Station, located in a eld tropical rainforest setting and just steps from the black sand beach. You ram of your choice. will work hands-on with research staff on the progr Please understand that CCCs research programs ar scientific research re projects, not guided tours or package holidays. Part ticipants will be assisting researchers with scientific field work at a r remote field station, and when not working you will have unsupervised f free time to relax and enjoy the nature surrounding you.
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Cuba
Solidarity Brigades to Cuba
Organization: Cuba Solidarity Campaign (UK) Location: Varies Cost: $1,470 (see details) Duration: 2 to 3 weeks, runs twice yearly Age: 1 18 Contact: finance@cuba-solidarity.org.uk Learn more: www.cuba-solidarity.org.uk/brigade es.asp Details: Solidarity Brigades are holidays with a dif fference, as well as undertaking light construction and agricultural voluntary work for part of the time you also get to mix with people of differ rent ages and backgrounds from all over the world, learn about a fascinating country and undertake a full program of cultural and educa ational visits. Brigades depart in the winter and summer. The price include return flights with es Virgin Airlines from London Gatwick, UK departur tax, visa, transfers re to and from Havana International Airport, food, ac ccommodation and most visits. ba Other organizations offering projects in Cub Cuba Volunteers (ESL teaching): www.cubavolun nteer.com Globe Aware (depending on politics): www.globea aware.org
Dominica
VISIONS Service Dominica
Organization: VISIONS Service Adventures Location: Carib Territory, Dominica ed Cost: $4500+ Duration: 4 weeks, and customize programs Age: Teens, customized programs for all ages Contact: info@VisionsServiceAdventures.com m Learn more: www.VisionsServiceAdventures.com Details: The Nature Island of the Lesser Antilles s, with its lush, unspoiled beauty, stands apart from nge other Caribbean islands. A rainforest mountain ran is the north-south spine of Dominica, alive with rar re tropical birds and flowers. Whales and dolphins sw wim
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Dominican Republic
The DREAM Guzman Ariza Summer School & Camp
Organization: The DREAM Project Location: Cabarete, Dominican Republic Cost: $1,800 (see details) Duration: 5 weeks (late June to late July) Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@dominicandream.org Learn more: www.dominicandream.org Special skills: Teaching experience and/or experience working with children, ability to effectively communicate in Spanish Details: The camp is held in a poor section of a popular tourist town on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Volunteers help to provide opportunities for children ages 9-17 to learn about their environment, culture and peers through experiential learning and educational excursions. Camp counselors work with Dominican staff while developing their own specialized educational programs for students. The program includes a week of orientation and four weeks serving in the camp as a teacher, counselor or area instructor. This is a great chance to improve your Spanish, teaching and leadership skills while providing a valuable educational experience for children in need. Cost includes housing, training, airport pick up and drop off, meals during the workweek, field trip fees and transportation.
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orphanage in summer camp type facilities. Location is far from the tourist areas and major cities. Full time American and Canadian Orphanage Outreach leaders will be living and working with you.
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El Salvador
Global Health Volunteer in Las Delicias
Organization: Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children Location: Las Delicias, El Salvador Cost: $1,101 per week Duration: 1 to 3 weeks, longer stays are possible Age: 18 Contact: missions@fimrc.org Learn more: www.fimrc.org Special skills: This program is specially focused for undergraduates, medical students and public health students Details: Las Delicias is an underserved community of approximately 5,000 people located a short drive from San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador. Volunteers have the opportunity to assist and shadow the clinic doctor while gaining firsthand experience in improving the health of developing communities. Volunteers will spend part of their time at the clinic site working with the clinic doctor to see patients, and will travel with field staff to perform house calls, conduct community outreach campaigns, collect basic health statistics, and survey families to develop assessments of healthcare needs. Programs run year-round, and free time is included to enjoy nightlife, sightseeing, tours and hikes. Other organizations offering projects in El Salvador: ArtCorp: www.artcorp.org Building New Hope (coffee, fair trade, woman, education): www.buildingnewhope.org Global Crossroads: www.globalcrossroad.com Coffee Quality Institute: www.coffeeinstitute.org Global Volunteer Network: www.volunteer.org.nz Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Grenada
Monitoring Nesting Leatherbacks & Hawksbills Turtles
Organization: YWF-Kido Foundation Location: Carriacou Island, Grenadines of Grenada, West Indies Cost: $450 for 30 days Duration: +1 month, 5 days per week
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Age: 18 - 45 (for under age volunteers parent has to sign a disclaimer) Contact: marina.fastigi@gmail.com Learn more: www.kido-projects.com Special skills: Volunteers should have a keen and genuine interest in conservation and ecology and be animal lovers. Volunteers must be good swimmers, physically fit to walk long distances on soft, sandy beaches and nature trails, while working in all weather conditions. Details: Volunteers will actively participate in monitoring and datacollection of two critically endangered Sea Turtle Species, Leatherback and Hawksbill, nesting on 5 different beaches on the island; helping to reduce illegal poaching activities of turtles and eggs. (From March to August) Duties include: Night patrolling on foot in a nature park area (8pm to 5am, five nights a week), working with local guides; assisting with tagging post-nesting turtles; carapace measuring and other data collecting; disguising nests against poaching activities; egg counting and mapping nest location, hatchling monitoring and survival rate data collection, nest excavation and early morning beach patrols either on foot or kayak. Other organizations offering projects in Grenada: Academic Treks: www.academictreks.com Ecoteer: www.ecoteer.com Good News Project (home building): www.goodnewswi.com Granada SPCA Animal Shelter: www.grenadaspca.org i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com Rosalie Forest Eco Lodge: www.3riversdominica.com World Horizons (service trips for teens & adults): www.world-horizons.com Working Abroad: www.workingabroad.com
Guadeloupe (France)
VISIONS French Language Immersion for Teens
Organization: VISIONS Service Adventures Location: Les Saintes Cost: $4,500+ Duration: 4 weeks, and customized programs Age: Teens, customized programs for all ages Contact: info@VisionsServiceAdventures.com Learn more: www.VisionsServiceAdventures.com
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Guatemala
Children's Health Education
Organization: Primeros Pasos Special skills: Must have intermediate to advanced leve of Spanish el Location: Quetzaltenango Cost: None Duration: 2+ months Age: 18 Contact: info@primerospasos.org Learn more: www.primerospasos.org Details: Primeros Pasos is a non-profit, independent org ganization that offers quality and affordable health care and health educa ation to the underserved communities of the Palajunoj Valley of Quetz zaltenango, Guatemala. With the collaboration of health professionals health s, educators, volunteers and community leaders, Primeros P Pasos strives to improve access to basic medical services. Generally, health educators work side by side with Guatemalan and foreign volunteers and work s directly with Guatemalan students, teachers and commun members. nity Health educators provide in-clinic classes to students (gra ades K-6) participating in the Primeros Pasos Healthy Schools Program and work with community schools to teach children about nutrition hygiene, n,
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puberty, sexual education, natural disasters, the en nvironment, children's rights, self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse and oth topics. her
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Manos de Colores
Organization: Asociacin Centro de Idiomas El Nahual Location: Quetzaltenango, in Guatemalas beautiful western highlands. Cost: None. However, volunteers may sign up for Spanish classes and/or homestay option ($160 per week), which provides the opportunity to live with a local family, eat traditional Guatemalan food and practice rolling your Rs while working with Manos de Colores. Duration: 1 week to 12+ months, prefer 2 months or more Age: 18, or accompanied by an adult. Contact: Volunteer only: manosdecolores@gmail.com, Study and volunteer: cdl.elnahual@gmail.com, Phone: +502 7765.2098 Learn more: www.elnahual.org Special skills: We can use any and all skill types, interests, and former experiences, including teaching, art, music, web design, photography, building, construction, gardening and more! Details: Manos de Colores is an intensive educational program offered to children at their community center in Quetzaltenango as well as three local public schools. The program was founded in 2004 following a period of reflection on the dismal state of education in Guatemala, which is compounded by poverty and the continued marginalization of rural and indigenous peoples. To that end, Manos de Colores seeks to provide children in the community with thoughtful, creative instruction in English, the arts, Spanish and mathematics. Their philosophy is education for social development. For those individuals who prefer to volunteer without the homestay option, they encourage you to bring donations such as school supplies, bike repair kits, computer parts and/or cash; just a few of the things the center always needs.
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Contact: Volunteer only: manosdecolores@gmail.com, Study and volunteer: cdl.elnahual@gmail.com, Phone: +502 7765.2098 Learn more: www.elnahual.org Special skills: Any and all skill types/levels are welcome to help build, paint, decorate and furnish a new community center. Experience with building, electrical wiring and plumbing is a plus but not required. Details: Asociacin de Centro Idiomas El Nahual (El Nahual Community Center) is a nonprofit community center funded by its Spanish language school. They serve as a nexus of support to children and families, offering after-school programs and education (Manos de Colores) for social development on the outskirts of Quetzaltenango. They need passionate, enthusiastic volunteers to help us construct a new community center. In addition to expanding current programs the center will house a free health clinic, a daycare center, a free public sports field and a free or sliding-scale school for children where they can receive a complete education and cultural programming involving workshops to develop practical and technical skills. This expansion will be made possible once the new center is built and El Nahual Community Center is no longer losing money to rent their current location. Due to the costs of labor, they are building the new center brick by brick and need volunteers who can help out any way they can, whether it is through raising cash donations for building supplies or the day to day manual work itself.
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energies in a positive manner. Onsite there is a community kitchen, botanical garden, plant nursery, basketball court, playground and soccer field playing host to hundreds of Guatemalans a week. Women, men and children of all ages enjoy the facilities and participate in organized and spontaneous activities. Volunteers get to apply their strengths by dedicating energy to our ongoing projects. Long Way Home needs people who appreciate the fruits of a challenge and cooperate easily with others. Interest in the outdoors is a plus and the willingness to try new things is highly encouraged.
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Project Administration
Organization: Safe Passage/Camino Seguro Location: Guatemala City, Guatemala and Antigua, Guatemala Cost: $50 volunteer fee, $95/week average living expenses Duration: 6+ months Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@safepassage.org Learn more: www.safepassage.org Special skills: Intermediate Spanish Details: Come make a difference by working with Safe Passage/Camino Seguro, an organization which supports children and families living around the Guatemala City garbage dump. We need experienced and committed volunteers to work in a variety of administrative positions within our organization, facilitating our programs and supporting our staff. Check our website for a list of currently needed positions. Affordable accommodations are available in the town of Antigua and direct transportation to Guatemala City is provided.
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Organization: Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association (ARCAS) wn Location: On Lake Peten Itza across from the tow of Flores in the Peten region of northern Guatemala ort Cost: $125 per week. Optional fee of $250 for airpo pick-up and trip to Tikal Duration: Open Age: Under 18 with parent's approval Contact: arcas@intelnet.net.gt uatemala.com Learn more: arcas@intelnet.net.gt, www.arcasgu Special skills: None required, but wildlife rehab e experience is helpful Details: The ARCAS wild animal rescue and rehab bilitation center is one of the premier wildlife rescue centers in the world, handling 300-600 t wild animals of 40+ species per year. Volunteers at the Rescue Center help in feeding and caring for the animals at th center which he include parrots, macaws, spider and howler monkeys, margays, us. ocelots, coatimundis, taras and kinkajou Nearly all of these animals have been seized from smug gglers and are very young, needing constant care an attention. There are nd also opportunities to take par in veterinary rt medical treatment, anima releases, al environmental education and wildlife surveys, these activities is though the scheduling of t irregular and we can't gua arantee you will be able to participate.
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Those with specialized skills are welcome to share their expertise. Participants have the opportunity to live with host families, with whom they will share three meals each day. Up to four weeks of Spanish lessons are also included with placements.
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Haiti
CENEOH-Haiti
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Port Au Prince, the capital of Haiti. Cost: $30 booking fee, $350 first one month, $200 subsequent months Duration: A minimum of two weeks, 1 month+ preferred. Bookings made according to volunteers need. Dates are flexible. Age: 18, kids welcome with a parent after prior consultation Contact: ceneoh@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: southamerica.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: Child education experience to help train teachers. French will be an advantage. Details: CENEOH stands for Centre of Neo Humanist Education. This project is affiliated with AMURT (Ananda Marga Universal Relief Team). Their mission is to educate the children based on Neo-Humanist curriculum that fosters a sense of universalism in the students and
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teaches them about the sacredness of all forms of life. Most of the students come from poor families. Currently, there are approximately 250 children learning in 9 classrooms, including nursery and primary levels. The school is staffed by 12 teachers and support staff members. They need volunteers who have a love for children and who can help children in the process of their learning. Other organizations offering projects in Haiti: Action Against Hunger: www.actionagainsthunger.org CFH International (humanitarian aid): www.chfhq.org Christian Veterinary Mission: www.cvmusa.org Fonkoze (alternative banking for poor): www.fonkoze.org Healing Hands for Haiti (rehabilitation medicine): www.healinghandsforhaiti.org Kids Worldwide: www.kidsworldwide.org Practical Compassion: www.practicalcompassion.org New Frontiers Health Force: www.newfrontiershf.com Reconstructing Efforts Aiding Children Without Homes: www.reach4children.org Safe Water Plus: www.safewaterplus.org Twinning Center (HIV/AIDS, medical): www.twinningagainstaids.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Honduras
Jungle School Teachers Assistant
Organization: Helping Honduras Kids Location: La Ceiba, Honduras Costs: $100 - A daily lunch only is provided when working Duration: 2 months to 1 year Age: 18 Contact: info@helpinghonduraskids.org Learn more: www.helpinghonduraskids.org Special skills: Must speak Spanish and enjoy kids Details: Helping Honduras Kids is a volunteer organization that is geared toward assisting disadvantaged kids on the Caribbean coast of Honduras. They operate an orphanage with 21 children and a jungle school with over 60 kids. Without help these kids would be either on the street and/or get no formal education. HHK believes that through education they can make a difference in the outcomes of these little
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is rural and poor, the small city of La Ceiba is only 2 minutes away, 20 offering all the modern conveniences. Volunteers p purchase and prepare their own food.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Honduras Medical Project in Gracias
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: The town of Gracias, 6 hours from Tegucigalpa, Cost: $716 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 olunteer.org.nz Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.vo Special skills: Intermediate Spanish, experience and/or qualifications r in medicine erfunded rural Details: This project allows volunteers to help at an unde hospital. The Gracias Hospital continually struggles to me demand eet with its meager budget and is therefore in constant need o assistance. of Volunteers will participate in many of the roles associated with d shadowing nurses and doctors, laboratory work, prenatal care, intensive r care, physiotherapy and more. The level and scope of your involvement will be determined by your experience and knowledge. All applications l need to be accompanied with a copy of your CV (rsum). .
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the continuous help from volunteers they are slowly but surely changing y the building by painting and decorating the facilitie which are run down es due to lack of funds.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Teach Environmental Health to 5-12 Year Olds
Organization: Amigos de las Amricas Location: Various locations within 4 hours of La Paz Cost: $4,000+ Duration: 6 weeks Age: 16 by Sept. 1st Contact: info@amigoslink.org Learn more: www.amigoslink.org Details: Volunteers are needed to facilitate educational activities. This will involve different presentation methods for physical education, art and leadership and team building activities, with an emphasis placed on environmental health. Volunteers will be located in mountain communities south and west of the city.
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protected species within the marine protected area. Data collection follows an internationally recognized coral reef monitoring program, called Reef Check, and will be used to make informed management and conservation decisions within the existing marine protected area. The expedition also includes training as a Reef Check Eco-Diver. With this you are also eligible to apply for PADI or NAUI Reef Check Specialty Course certification. Other organizations offering projects in Honduras: A Pas de Loup www.apasdeloup.org Architects without Borders: www.awb.iohome.net ArtCorps: www.artcorp.org Bay Island Conservation Association: www.bicautila.org Bilingual Education for Central America: www.becaschools.org Brethren Volunteer Service: www.brethrenvolunteerservice.org Carolina Honduras Health Foundation: www.carolinahondurashealth.org Cofradia Bilingual School: www.cofradiaschool.com Feed the Children: www.feedthechildren.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org Iguana Station: www.utila-iguana.de My Little Red House Bilingual School: www.mylittleredhousebilingualschool.com V.I.P. Central America: vipca.webs.com Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventures (medical, dental, veterinary, service & construction): www.vidavolunteertravel.org Unite for Sight: www.uniteforsight.org Utila Community Clinic: www.aboututila.com
Jamaica
Deaf Education in Kingston
Organization: World Endeavors Location: Kingston, Jamaica Cost: $1,317+ Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: inquiry@worldendeavors.com Learn more: www.worldendeavors.com
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Mexico
Love and Time to Stray Dogs of Puerto Escondido
Organization: Perros En Puerto A.C. Location: Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico Cost: None, volunteer pays own transport and expenses Duration: 4+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: perrosenpuerto@hotmail.com Learn more: www.perrosenpuerto.com Special skills: Knowledge of some Spanish & animal care Details: This very new shelter and rescue program is seeking people who want to make a difference in the life of a stray dog. Like in many other places the canine friends here are suffering neglect and abuse. The aim is to educate the community, provide population control programs and rescue and care for the many dogs who are still wandering the streets. If you have your heart in the right place and would like to spend quality time with special shelter animals, experience instant gratification when feeding a starving dog on the street, or enjoy teaching adults and children to help end the suffering of the animals, this is your opportunity. Depending on the season and length of stay PEP can provide free accommodation for volunteers.
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starving, injured or abused. Since 2005, Baja Dogs La Paz has been working hard to provide food, shelter and medical care for homeless animals, and to reduce the number of stray dogs through an aggressive spay/neuter program. They also teach children the importance of caring for and respecting their pets.
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Organization: Kaya Responsible Travel Location: The southern city of Oaxaca Cost: $1,270 Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18-80 Contact: info@kayavolunteer.com Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com Special skills: A love for working with Children, patience, and enthusiasm are a must. Volunteers must be comfortable dealing with disabled children and speak basic Spanish (Basic Spanish lessons will be provided) Details: The shelter is one of the few that houses children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They receive and look after children from newborns to 18 years. Most of these youths are abandoned, orphaned, removed from unhealthy homes, have physical disabilities, or are recovering from addiction. The shelter has limited space and resources, but aims to take the best care of every child. With so many children, volunteers are necessary to make up for the shortcomings in staff size. Volunteers can create activities for the kids, do physical therapy, work one-on-one with a particular child, participate and help supervise outings with the kids, help maintain and improve the facilities, tutor, participate in therapy sessions, and provide attention and caring for a happy environment.
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Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com erest in environmental Special skills: No specific skills required. An inte issues and computer skills are helpful ll Details: Oaxaca has the most biodiversity out of al the states in Mexico. Unfortunately, Oaxacas environment is being abus and exploited. sed Protect the natural habitat that provides water, clim mate control and sustenance to those living on and near the San Felip Mountains in one pe or more of these three areas: information and exchange, alternative tion with project staff, technology, and conservation. Working in conjunct volunteers participate in projects designed to addre deforestation, soil ess and water contamination, and urban growth. Progr ram activities include reforestation of native plants, conservation, workin with local ng communities to clean up and preserve nature, helping in the scale entities doing organization of local events and supporting small-s unique things to preserve the environment (such as organic egg farms, s childrens ecological brigades, or home gardens).
Empowering Women
Organization: Kaya Responsible Travel Location: The southern city of Oaxaca 8-80 Cost: $1,270+ Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@kayavolunteer.com Learn more: www.KayaVolunteer.com required (basic Special skills: A basic level of spoken Spanish is r Spanish lessons provided) girls in Oaxaca often Details: As part of traditional machismo society, g do not receive as much education as boys, and fema of all ages are ales burdened by gender inequality. Change the lives of rural women by f nfidence, know their working in the centre helping women build self-con rights and improve their skills and knowledge. The centre offers talks on women's empowerment and independence, provide legal advice and es information on women's health makes scholarships h, available, and helps provide access to midwives. rspective to women Volunteers help bring new per who have not travelled far out tside their homes and are not aware of other ways of life. Offer f knowledge, experience, empat and support and thy see real results as local women become stronger n and more independent, passin those traits along to ng their daughters.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Casa de los Amigos Center for Peace
Organization: Casa de los Amigos, A.C. Location: Mexico City Cost: none Duration: 6 months to 1 year Age: 18 Contact: amigos@casadelosamigos.org Learn more: www.casadelosamigos.org Special skills: Spanish fluency, experience with and dedication to social justice work Details: The Casa de los Amigos is a Quaker Center for Peace and International Understanding in Mexico City that was founded in 1956. It is a non-profit organization, an active community space with many events and activities open to the public, a social justice-oriented guesthouse, and the seat of the Mexico City monthly meeting (Quakers). The Casa currently has programs in hospitality, migration and economic justice.
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creation, blogs and more. All equipment you need is provided. Volunteers will train youth on basic computer skills, including Internet use, teach youth basic digital photography skills and host youth technology education classes.
Other organizations offering projects in Mexico: Access to Empowerment (primary education for impoverished kids): www.accesstoempowerment.org American Friends Service Committee: www.afsc.org
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Organization: Academic Treks Location: Saba and Statia, St. Barts Cost: $4,980 Duration: 25+ hours as part of a 22-day marine conservation program Age: Teens finishing grades 9 through 12 Contact: info@academictreks.com; 919-256-8200 or 888-833-1908 Learn more: www.academictreks.com Special skills: None. Scuba certification a plus. Details: On Academic Treks Caribbean Marine Conservation program in the Leeward Islands, students spend 25+ hours working with Statia and Sabas Marine Parks, assisting with the ongoing management of the reserves. Activities on this college-accredited program include but are not limited to helping to assess coral diseases, bleaching, algae coverage and biodiversity, contributing to the Reef Check Survey Project, participating in Statia's turtle monitoring program, conducting conch research, doing beach clean ups and maintaining permanent moorings for the marine park. Students earn college credit while learning about marine resource management and marine reserves, designed to safeguard marine environments while allowing for their sustainable use. Studies are intertwined with world class diving and island exploration. Other organizations offering projects in the Netherlands Antilles: HealthCare Volunteer: www.healthcarevolunteer.com Saba Conservation Foundation: www.sabapark.org St. Eustatius Animal Welfare Foundation: www.seawf.com St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation: www.statiapark.org
Nicaragua
Building and Education in the Quarter of La Prusia
Organization: La Esperanza Housing & Development / Casas de la Esperanza Location: La Prusia, a quarter of 200 slums near Granada, Nicaragua Cost: None. Lodging and lunch on workdays provided for free for long stay volunteers. Duration: 8+ weeks preferred Age: 18
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Organization: blueEnergy Location: Bluefields, Nicaragua (only accessible by boat or plane) Cost: $500 registration and $150 per month Duration: 1 year minimum commitment Age: Adults Contact: volunteer@blueenergygroup.org Learn more: www.blueenergygroup.org Special skills: Broad range of skills needed, from engineers to accountants and everything in between Details: blueEnergy improves lives in marginalized communities using a holistic approach to sustainable energy and related fundamental services. blueEnergy develops wind and solar energy solutions, solar lighting solutions, water filtration systems, communications solutions and provides local capacity building support to communities on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. An innovator in the sustainable energy field, blueEnergy manufactures its wind turbines locally, an approach seldom seen but designed to increase the local understanding of, and capacity for, maintaining the renewable energy system. This approach helps build local technical capacity and provides jobs in the local economy. blueEnergy functions in challenging environments and succeeds thanks to the individual relationship that our volunteers build with the communities while investing their time in building local capacity. Long-term volunteers come with the idea of taking the time to build these relationships and often end up staying for two years or more.
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nine farming cooperatives made up of local farmers (campesinos). The cooperatives are ground based organizations with well experienced traditional working techniques. Campesinos are struggling to keep both, subsistence agriculture and sustainable development, in this vast natural reservation area. The organization structure at cooperatives is horizontal, with democracy and transparency as their core values.
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Duration: 30+ hours of service work as part of 22-day language and cultural immersion program Age: Teens finishing grades 9-12 Contact: info@academictreks.com; 919-256-8200 or 888-833-1908 Learn more: www.academictreks.com Special skills: One year high school Spanish Details: Students on this college-accredited Spanish language and community service program spend several days working with the children of Nuestros Pequeos Hermanos Orphanage on the island of Ometepe. The service work is just part of a 22 day program that spans two beautiful and culturally rich Central American countries from the highlands of Costa Rica to the spectacular volcanic islands of Nicaragua. Learn Spanish through immersion, classroom studies and service as you explore magnificent river valleys, a grand colonial city, tropical rainforests and a verdant island in the middle of Central Americas largest freshwater lake. Live for a week with gracious families who welcome you into their community. This Academic Trek highlights the diversity of these two countries and opens your eyes to the colorful cultures of each. Other organizations offering projects in Nicaragua: Amigos de las Amricas: www.amigoslink.org Basecamp International Centers: www.basecampcenters.com Building New Hope (coffee, fair trade, woman, education): www.buildingnewhope.org Fabretto Childrens Foundation: www.fabretto.org Foundation for Sustainable Development: www.fsdinternational.org Guardabarranco S.A. Agro-ecological Business (improving local agriculture on small farms): eco-nic.com La Esperanza Granada (childrens education): www.la-esperanza-granada.org Raleigh: www.raleighinternational.org Ranch Ezperanza (energy, organic gardening): www.rancho.esperanza.bvg3.com Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventures (medical, dental, veterinary, service & construction): www.vidavolunteertravel.org
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Panama
Leatherback Turtle Conservation
Organization: Rainforest Concern/The Endangered Wildlife Trust Location: Soropta beach and Playa Larga modation Cost: US$150 per week. Prices include meals and accomm Duration: 1+ week adult Age: 18. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an a Contact: Carlos Fernandez: carlos57fer@yahoo.com, +50 224 8568 or 06 info@rainforestconcern.org Learn more: www.turtleprotection.org Special skills: A keen interest in conservation required a Details: Volunteers are needed at Playa Larga in Panama to help protect endangered Leatherback turtles, the largest sea turtles. Vo olunteers participate in every aspect of the project. The project offer an exciting r opportunity to be involved in the work and help to protect turtles which t are listed as critically endangered species. Volunteers will help with l beach cleaning, making pathways and building trails, help ping with the wildlife inventories and assisting with projects carried out by the t researchers. During the day the volunteer will search for n nest excavations. To protect the turtles and their nests from po oachers, the beaches are patrolled every night from early March to late September. e
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meals, lodging, some sightseeing, dinner at the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal or a tour to an Embera Indian community located one hour up the Chagres River.
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Other organizations offering projects in Panama: Amigos de las Amricas: www.amigoslink.org Bruce Organization (educating street kids, raising financial independence of women & eradication poverty): volunteerpanama.com CREA (environmental): www.crea-panama.org Global Humanitarian Adventures: www.gogha.org Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk Medo (grassroots, education, health, environmental): medo.awardspace.com Peregrine Fund: www.peregrinefund.org The Purple House (hostel work exchanged for room/food): www.purplehousehostel.com Volunteers for Intercultural and Definitive Adventures (medical, dental, veterinary, service & construction): www.vidavolunteertravel.org
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Saint Lucia
Organizations offering projects in Saint Lucia: Good News Project (home building): www.goodnewswi.com Health Volunteers Overseas: www.hvousa.org Partners of the Americas: www.partners.net
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United States
Dogtown Doggie Duties
Organization: Best Friends Animal Society Location: The quaint and beautiful town of Kanab in southern Utah Cost: None Duration: Flexiblesome volunteers help for a few hours and some stay for days or longer Age: Under 18 must be with a parent. For safety no helpers under age 5
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Organization: Farm Sanctuary Location: New York and California Cost: None. $150 refundable deposit Duration: 3 months Age: 18 Contact: intern@farmsanctuary.org Learn more: www.farmsanctuary.org Special skills: Ability to work hard in all weather conditions and to commit to Farm Sanctuary goals rm Details: Farm Sanctuary is the nation's leading far animal protection organization. Since incorporating in 1986, Farm Sanctuary has worked to expose and stop cruel practices of the "food animal" industry through research and investigations, legal and institutional reforms, public awareness projects, youth education, and direct rescue and refuge efforts. Farm Sanctuary shelters in Watkins Glen, NY and Orland, CA provide lifelong care for hundreds of rescued animals, who have become ambassadors for farm animals everywhere by educating visitors ter about the realities of factory farming. General shelt projects include, shelter cleaning, shelter laundry, assisting with animal health checks, rands including vet animal monitoring projects, assisting with farm err trips, barn cleaning and grounds maintenance. Oth internship her opportunities also exist. Editors note: Read Finding Sanctuary by K. A Angel Horne in The Voluntary Traveler: Adventures from the Road Be Traveled and est discover one interns Farm Sanctuary experience.
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housing, and it is working. Volunteers will join AiP students and faculty P, of the University of Southern Illinois Carbondale Sc chool of Architecture and Department of History, and the Cairo Vision 20 0/20 Committee to restore a shotgun house, which will then be used fo affordable housing or and spur the restoration of additional shotgun hous ses.
VISIONS Alaska
Organization: VISIONS Service Adventures Location: Alaska Athabascan communities ed Cost: $4,000+ Duration: 4 weeks, or customize programs Age: Teens, customized programs for all ages Contact: info@VisionsServiceAdventures.com m Learn more: www.VisionsServiceAdventures.com Details: VISIONS challenges every part of youth mind, muscles, and he heart. The coed programs for teens blend communi service, crossity cultural immersion, and adventurous exploration in impoverished n communities. VISIONS has sites on the northern boundary of southcentral Alaska, roughly 4 hours from Fairbanks. Projects in native on villages include building playgrounds and recreatio facilities, renovating community buildings and elders homes and supervising s, childrens activity programs. Participants learn abo Athabascan culture out and a unique frontier heritage. Recreation includes day hikes, extended s backpacking trips in the Wrangell Mountains, an ic ce-climbing adventure, trips to neighboring towns and wildlife viewing.
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with homesteads, businesses, and the first African American school in the Gulfport region. Turkey Creek is a vital watershed that has come under threat from developers, a threat that intensified in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The service work in Mississippi will vary to include construction, renovation, debris clean-up, work with the elderly and children, and with the Mississippi Audubon Society.
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Walking ten thousand miles of the world is better than reading ten thousand scrolls. ~ Chinese Proverb
Armenia
Saving Armenias Architectural Heritage
Organization: Adventures in Preservation Location: Kumayri Historic District in Gyumri, Armenia Cost: $2,350 Duration: 13 days Age: 18 Contact: workshops@adventuresinpreservation.org Learn more: www.adventuresinpreservation.org Special skills: No skills necessary; training provided at the site Details: Armenia is one of the worlds oldest civilizations, and over the years has developed a distinctive architectural identity. Much of Gyumris beautifully crafted traditional architecture was damaged during a 1988 earthquake, and recent recovery has involved more demolition than repair. Concern about the loss of this architectural heritage led to the Kumayri Historic District being named to the World Monuments Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites in 2008. AiP volunteers will work under the guidance of an expert to demonstrate that restoration is a viable alternative to demolition, keeping valuable building materials in
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Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com The Fuller Center for Housing Armenia: www.fullercenterarmenia.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org
Azerbaijan
Organizations offering projects in Azerbaijan: Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk Kiva Fellows Program: www.kiva.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org Volunteers for Prosperity (skilled professionals): www.volunteersforprosperity.gov
Bangladesh
Organizations offering projects in Bangladesh: ChildSite Foundation: www.childsight-foundation.org Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteer Association for Bangladesh: www.vabonline.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org UNA Exchange: www.unaexchange.org
Cambodia
Rainbow Orphanage
Organization: Working for Children Location: Rural area of Siem Reap Province in Cambodia Cost: None. Donations to Rainbow Orphanage are much appreciated Duration: 4 hours per day for 1 or more days Age: 18, kids over 12 welcome with their parent or teachers
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community, you will spend time learning about diving then put your skills into practice in the field collecting, collating and analyzing data on the marine environment. Underwater investigative projects include seahorse surveys, biodiversity and abundance surveys. As well as reef and beach clean ups. Terrestrial projects include jungle treks collecting species information and mangrove rehabilitation. All information is submitted to the Cambodian Fisheries Administration Conservation Department. This relationship has already made great steps forward in maintaining and protecting a sustainable marine environment for Cambodia, so join us and make the changes happen.
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beautiful, remote and undeveloped island of Koh Rong off the coast of Sihanoukville, Cambodia. You can work from 2 to 20 weeks, and youll be living in truly rustic, and eco-friendly conditions on a beach-fringed bay accommodation, meals, dive and science training are included in the price. Editors note: Coral Cay is one of three organizations rated as highly recommended under the Best Volunteering Organization category of the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award 2009
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Organization: Global Service Corps Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia Cost: 5 weeks $3360; weekly fee after 5 weeks $365, after 13 weeks $250; Accommodations are provided in local hostels. Duration: 5 weeks to 6 months Age: 20 or older (18 or 19 with three letters of recommendation) Contact: cambodia@globalservicecorps.org Learn more: www.globalservicecorps.org Special skills: No special skills required, just a commitment to service Details: GSCs Teach English Program begins with a one week cultural orientation and teaching English training in Phnom Penh. The orientation includes learning about Khmer customs, including social do's and don'ts, and acquiring basic Khmer conversation skills. During this time participants will tour local historical sites and visit local partner organizations. Participants are also provided training in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in a Cambodian context. The training is followed by four or more weeks of teaching basic and conversational English to either primary or secondary school students hosted by community based organizations. The program also includes a three day trip to Siem Reap to visit Angkor Wat and other historical sites.
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China
Hunan Providence Year
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Changsha and other cities in the Hunan Providence Cost: $500, subsidized by Hunan Provincial Government Duration: One Year (Departure in early August) Age: 18-65 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Details: WorldTeach volunteers in China teach in secondary schools (ages 12-18) in Hunan Province. The program is designed to bring native English speakers to teach students at all socioeconomic levels, as currently in China the upper classes have more opportunities to learn from native speakers. Your role will be to build students' confidence in English through creative, orally-focused English lessons. Volunteers are also encouraged to contribute to their school community in other ways. You may want to set up an English club, help in the school library or computer room, participate in sports or help students prepare for cultural performances. You may also help local English teachers with their pronunciation skills. Your host school will provide you with a furnished foreign teacher's apartment on the school campus. You may opt to buy lunches from the school dining hall, eat at local restaurants or cook your own meals.
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China Summer
Organization: WorldTeach Location: China- Hunan Province Cost: $3,990 Duration: 2 months (mid June- mid August) Age: 18
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Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: ww ww.worldteach.org Special skills: Fluent in English Details: WorldTeach volunteers in the China Summer Program teach in secondary school-based summer English camps in Hunan Province. The ers program is designed to bring native English speake to teach students from all socioeconomic levels. Your role will be to b build students confidence in English through creative, orally-focus English lessons sed and to design and participate in cultural activities w your with students. Chinese lessons, cultural activities, housin and meals ng provided by host schools.
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India
Child Labour School, Resource Project, Children's Homes (Internship)
Organization: The Right Now Foundation Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh Cost: None Duration: Open Age: Any Contact: Stewartbotting@hotmail.com or stewart@rightnow.org.uk Learn more: www.Rightnow.org.uk Special skills: Teaching (English, art and crafts, games) Details: The Right Now Foundations projects are all undertaken within four hours of Chennai city. As a volunteer you may opt to work in a wide range of fields and select experiences from teaching in a slum or working with children in child labor, to teaching English in a rural home located in the middle of nowhere. All you need is a willingness to help children and to offer them (based on your experience) some fun and learning
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opportunities. This is tough work heat, culture and language - to say nothing of the plight of the children the program works with, so be bold in this endeavor. It might just change your life!
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Mixed Projects for all Nature Lovers
Organization: Himalayan Nature Society Location: Dharamsala Cost: None Duration: 1+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: friendsforanimals@gmail.com Learn more: www.hnsindia.org Special skills: Volunteer, visitor, and sponsor must have rabies and tetanus vaccinations plus be able to walk 3 to 4 km. per day. Details: HNS needs people from all walks of life: veterinarians, vetnurses, dog catcher or handler, pharmacist, computer expert, shotographer, business developer( MBA), hydrologist, environmentalist, birdwatcher, graphic designer, web designer, rescue expert, animals researcher and writers, etc. Also any people who loves animals and nature. Volunteers clean cages, socialize animals, feed dogs at streets, help with vehicle and building maintained. They have a special need for veterinarians and vet techs to help with our trap, neuter, release (TNR) program. Also we need office help experienced in generating publicity, fundraising, website update, public relation etc. Editors note: Himalayan Nature Society was previously only focused on nature conservation, but local government authorities were organizing mass inhumane killings of stray dogs by poisoning and beating them with bamboo and iron sticks in order to control over population. Then local people came forward in conjunction with HNS to offer an alternative ABC (Animal Birth Control) program.
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Organization: Darjeeling Goodwill Animal Shelter Location: Darjeeling Cost: None expenses Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: yogesh_24sh@yahoo.co.in or catrina_vear@yahoo.com Learn more: via email Special skills: Volunteers should be qualified veterinarians, but veterinary technicians may be considered on a case by case basis. Details: Darjeeling Goodwill Animal Shelter focuses mainly on a two tier program: 1) anti-rabies vaccinations and 2) animal birth control of the street dog population. Dogs are caught from the street, vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and released back to their original areas with certain identifying marks such as an ear notch or tattoo number to identify them as safe to the public. DGAS also performs regular anti-rabies vaccination camps both locally and in remote villages, open to owned, street, and community animals that people wish to bring for vaccination. DGAS is also available for treatment of owned animals, ranging from dogs to goats and cows. Puppies on the street are often rescued, made healthy, and rehomed.
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Cost: $350 1st month, $200 for subsequent months Duration: 2 week minimum, 1 month+ preferred Age: 18 Contact: aradhana@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: asia.kidsworldwide.org/indiaaradhana.htm Special skills: This project needs talented volunteers or couples/families who would like to spend time with rural and tribal, slum women and children Details: This project is run by the Bethesda Mission, which was started in 1999 in Bangalore. It is registered with the government of India and it is part of a faith-based mission serving the rural, slum and tribal population. There are around 70 boys in their care. You can get involved in the following activities: teaching, training the youngsters in various skills, conducting medical clinics, awareness programmes, screening programmes, vocational training, visiting the houses and slums, immunization programmes and fundraising.
Daya Orphanage
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: In the heart of Bhubaneswar city, Orissa state Cost: $350 1st month, $200 subsequent months Duration: 2+ weeks, 1+ month preferred. Age: Older volunteers (30+) preferred, no single women under 30. Contact: daya@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: asia.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: Volunteers should have a love for children, and the character to act as a role model. Details: The Orphanage of Daya (means compassion) was established in the year 2004. Daya is a Christian based organization which has grown steadily over the last 5 years and now has 2 buildings - one which houses boys, and the other which houses the girls. The children live on site, receiving a Christ centered education, food, clothing and love. The orphanage also runs a school for slum children. There are 20 children at present. Most of the parents of these children are day workers, alcoholic and/or illiterate. Each day the children get snacks and two days a week they receive a free lunch. The majority of these kids are considered lower caste/untouchable according to the Hindu caste system and need your caring open heart to help them to survive and thrive.
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3 and 18 years old and just over half are either mentally disabled or suffer from cerebral palsy.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Teaching English to the Santhal Community
Organization: uVolunteer Location: Sankiniketan, West Bengal district Cost: $750 for the first three weeks; $95 each additional week Duration: 3+ weeks Age: 18 olunteer.org Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvo Special skills: Basic English opment of a Details: As a volunteer you will be supporting the develo Santhal tribal people. Volunteers will be helping the comm munity by teaching basic English to the children of the village. You w be will developing daily lesson plans and assisting the teachers. Y will also You have a chance to help with the craft camps. India is home to 1/3 of n world's poor and 25 to 50 percent of its population lives in sheer poverty. Volunteers for this project should be lively and love childr ren.
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Cost: Starting at $490 (2 weeks), $150 per extra week Duration: 2 to 12+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@ispiice.com Learn more: www.ispiice.com Special skills: Proficiency in English Details: iSPiiCE take you to the very heart of India to raise awareness on Womens Empowerment issues. Strong gender inequalities still exist in rural India and womens lack of decision making power is evident in all aspects of their lives. Often girls receive only a few short years of schooling and are sent off to be married at a young age. Education is the most influential tool to raise the status of women. iSPiiCE runs a variety of educational and confidence building activities to benefit women and adolescent girls in the local community. Teaching English and computer classes impart much needed skills to the ladies, increase their self-worth and offer a platform for social interaction, ultimately increasing their social status and employability prospects. Make a real impact on these womens lives and share with them your experiences and skills to help them take control of their futures.
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Organization: iSPiiCE (Integrated Social Programs in Indian Child Education) Location: Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, North India Cost: Starting at $490 (2 weeks), $150 per extra week Duration: 2 to 12 weeks or more Age: 18 Contact: info@ispiice.com Learn more: www.ispiice.com Special skills: Recognized Healthcare/Social Work qualifications Details: Rural Indian communities lack access to healthcare, putting women and children are at severe risk. This group is among the most disadvantaged in the world in terms of health status. iSPiiCE has volunteers travel into small rural villages to meet with local pregnant women and those with small children, to discuss their situations with regard to general health, difficulties and concerns they may be facing and to determine practical ways of assistance that benefit their specific needs while giving nutritional and healthcare advice. Visits benefit all in terms of increased education/awareness. Volunteers experience, at a grass roots level, the difficulties women of rural India face and offer practical ways of assistance which will ultimately bring benefits to the community as a whole.
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interested in animal welfare, mixed animal practice and development of animal health services in the rural areas of developing countries are welcome. Work with vets in the ABC program, Equine Street Clinics, emergency vet service in rural villages and at times teaching the participants of the vet training program. Every year volunteer veterinarians and vet students join the IPAN team learning about animal health and welfare issues in India. The Hill View Farm Animal Refuge is situated in the Mavanalla village bordering the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. This is part of the UN designated Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, world renowned for its birdlife and flora.
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Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Bali Islands Sunderbans, North-East India Cost: $1,800 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/11 day trip Age: 16 with an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL), building, or horticultural skills are desirable Details: Delve into rural community life, get to know the people and take part in a wonderful sustainable project. This is the heartwarming story of poachers turned conservationists protecting the wildlife and flora of this unique ecosystem. Assist in maintaining and repairing clay embankments of the dike, planting mangroves to minimize flood damage or you can help construct a 10-bed hospital. To complete a remarkable adventure and to give yourself a taste of Indias diversity, guided walks through the peaceful and stunning Bali Island will contrast with the noise, color and energy of the streets of Calcutta. The truly lucky may even be able to add a tiger sighting to your list of experiences.
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Taste of India
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Delhi Cost: $2,350 per person, based on sharing a room, excluding flights. Duration: 4 days volunteering/12 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL) skills are desirable Details: This volunteer project is a unique opportunity to help the poorest of the poor. Improve the living conditions of people in the slums or devote time to teaching English, math, science, drama or general studies or improve the school. Marvel at the ingenuity of the children as they make toys and play games with the few things they have. Then explore other facets of this fascinating country as you visit the beautiful Taj Mahal, explore the streets of Jaipur the Pink City, seek out tigers in the Ranthambore reserve, haggle in bazaars and marvel at the Maharajas Palace. From slums to riches, India has it all.
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Cost: $5,700 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 with an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL) skills are desirable Details: This trip offers a fascinating juxtaposition. As you enjoy the luxuries of India and marvel at the myriad of colors, fascinating history and stunning scenery, you have the unique opportunity to help the poorest of the poor. Help improve the education of the impoverished children in the slums or improve the school. Contrast this humbling experience with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal. You will be awestuck as you experience the many facet of life in this remarkable country, from the stunning Pink City of Jaipur to a beautiful tiger reserve and some relaxing days spent in the luxurious Chambal lodge Other organizations offering projects in India: Calcutta Rescue: (socially & economically) www.calcuttarescue.org Child Family Health International: www.cfhi.org Crawl: www.crawlsociety.org Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation (combats illiteracy): www.ekalindia.org FairMail (photography to underprivileged teens producing cards to earn money): www.fairmail.info Global Choices: www.globalchoices.co.uk Global Contact, ActionAid Denmark: www.globalcontact.dk Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com India Study Abroad: www.indiastudyabroad.org India Volunteer Care: www.indiavolunteercare.com Kerala Link: www.kerala-link.org People and Places (Winner Best Volunteering Organization category of Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award 2009): www.travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Raleigh: www.raleighinternational.org Volunteering India: www.volunteeringindia.com
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Indonesia
Bali Veterinarian and Veterinary Nursing
Organization: Bali Animal Welfare Association (BAWA) Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia Cost: None Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: wendyl@bawabali.com Learn more: www.bawabali.com Special skills: Nurses experience in a vet clinic including emergency procedures, general animal clinic protocol, surgery protocols and standard applications of medicines and drugs. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M or V.M.D); At least 3 to 5 years work experience. Details: This is a unique opportunity to volunteer to help animal welfare in a fascinating and rich cultural setting. BAWA aims to relieve suffering, control the population and improve the health of Bali's street dogs through medical care, spay/neutering street-feeding, puppy adoption and education of school children. Theyre also involved in rabies eradication in Bali. BAWA staff especially need training in general veterinary staff procedures, emergency procedures, best surgery protocols and administering drugs and medications. They need to become more efficient and improve day to day procedures at the clinic to increase their intake capacity and use clinic space to its maximum benifit. They also need you to train their education staff in the best practices to educate local Indonesians on the care of companion animals, how to prevent rabies and what to do if bitten.
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organization, so they desperately need all the help they can get. Volunteers assist with the programs running from the clinic. They need you to assist the staff in day to day care of the clinic animals including feeding, cleaning, puppy socialization and dog walking.
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dedicated teachers, students not only acquire academic skills and knowledge, but also gain strength of character and high ideals. Volunteers should have a love for children and good character through which to act as a role model for the children.
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Details: Tasikoki rescue centre was set-up in 2001 to tackle the hub of illegal trade in Indonesian wildlife being smuggled through Sulawesi on its way to the Philippines and then on to the global market. Volunteers assist in the daily care of several rare species of Sulawesi macaques at the rescue centre, as well as helping in the field with reintroduction projects. All meals and resort-style accommodation over-looking the beach included.
Orangutan Research
Organization: Orangutan Health Project Location: North Sumatra, Indonesia Cost: $1,289 Duration: 2 weeks Age: 18-50 Contact: orangutanhealth@nusa.net.id Learn more: www.orangutan-health.org Details: The Orangutan Health Project investigates the special behaviors and ecological conditions necessary for the maintenance of health in wild orangutans. By volunteering with OHP, you will have a special opportunity to see primary rainforest in one of the most beautiful areas in the world while contributing to the research and conservation goals of OHP. Work of this type on orangutans in Indonesia has never been conducted before. The aim is to understand how orangutans combat parasite infections that affect their health, reproduction and, ultimately, their survival. The importance of our research cannot be emphasized enough it will bring knowledge to basic science, public health and wildlife management and hopefully help to save both flora and fauna. In effect, we will all win.
Bali Bound
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Bali Cost: $1,850 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/12 day trip Age: 16 with an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL), engineering, or building skills are desirable Details: Join a project devoted to improving the lives of disabled children and young adults. All tasks including administrative work and building repairs have a significant impact on quality of life. If you have
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Israel
Free Dental Care for Underpriviliged Children
Organization: DVI - Dental Volunteers for Israel Location: Jerusalem Cost: None. Accommodations provided, volunteer responsible for transportation and other living costs Duration: 1 to 4 weeks Contact: international@dental-dvi.org.il Learn more: www.dental-dvi.org.il Special skills: Licensed dentist
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Details: DVI, with the help of international dental volunteers provides l free state-of-the-art dental care to the indigent chil ldren of Jerusalem. If not for DVI, the over 200,000 children in Jerusalem living under the m poverty line would not receive any dental care or le earn about oral hygiene. DVI provides the perfect opportunity for a volunteering holiday. Working hours are Sunday Thur rsday, 8am 2pm, leaving enough free time for sigh htseeing. For the duration of their stay, volunteer dentists are given r the use of apartments in prime locations around Jerusalem. By giving of your sk and volunteering kill at the clinic, you have the oppo ortunity to change a childs life and your own.
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Japan
Tennis for Blind Children
Organization: Hands On Tokyo Location: Ayase, northeast Tokyo Cost: None Duration: 3+ hours Age: 15 Contact: info@handsontokyo.org Learn more: www.handsontokyo.org Special skills: Some tennis experience; it is not necessary to speak Japanese Details: As a volunteer on this project, you will help teach visuallyimpaired children from elementary to high school age to play tennis. Tennis for the blind originated in Tokyo several years ago and new clubs for blind youth are forming each year. With the help of special balls equipped with bells inside, players are able to hear the ball's location and successfully hit to one another. Their determination to excel and their remarkable abilities are inspiring to all volunteers on this project. This is a wonderful way to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese life and culture while helping make a measurable difference in the lives of the young players.
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Jordan
Organizations offering projects in Jordan: Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects: www.cadip.org International Internship and Volunteer Network: www.iivnetwork.com Jordan Tourist Board North America: www.seejordan.org True Travellers Society: www.truetravellers.org United Planet: www.unitedplanet.org
Lao(s)
Organizations offering projects in Lao: Fair Trek: www.trekking-in-laos.com Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com Globe Aware: www.globeaware.org Lifewater International: www.lifewater.org Open Mind Projects: www.openmindprojects.org Travel to Teach: www.travel-to-teach.org Volunteer in Asia: www.viaprograms.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org
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Malaysia
Animal Shelter and Sanctuary Voluntee ers
Organization: LASSie, Langkawi Animal Sanctua and Shelter ary Foundation Location: Langkawi Cost: None Duration: Varied Age: 21 to 41 Contact: info@langkawilassie.org.my Learn more: www.langkawilassie.org.my Special skills: A love for animals and their welfar Qualified re. veterinarians are very much appreciated. Details: The Langkawi Animal Shelter and Sanctu uary Foundation is set up to receive, rehabilitate and care for neglected, ab bused and needy animals. The shelters policy is that for stray cats on the streets, they are n trapped and sterilized, then returned to their norm habitat. In this way mal the Sanctuary hopes to control the stray population An adoption centre n. is also operated. Animals put up for adoption are sp payed, neutered, dewormed and vaccinated. Any wildlife brought to the shelter are treated and once healthy returned back to nature. Voluntee vets are needed, er plus animal lovers to help out in the clinic and dog and cat shelters. Accommodation is provided with a simple breakfas and the main meal st of the day at lunch. Volunteers are on their own for dinner. r
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Maldives
Organization offering projects in the Maldives: Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme: www.scubadivemaldives.com
Mongolia
Media TV Project
Organization: New Choice Mongolian Volunteer Organization Location: Ulaanbaatar Cost: $495 per month Duration: 2 to 8 weeks Age: 17 Contact: info@volunteer.org.mn, +976 11 314577 Learn more: www.volunteer.org.mn Special skills: Journalist or media student Details: Education TV is Mongolias new television channel. The main aim is to produce and present entertainment, sport & youth educational programmes for the Mongolian people. Demand for English language improvement and an exchange of skills is high. New Choice is also interested in a persons skills as a producer, operator, correspondent, illustrator or drawer who can help to create scenes and provide new ideas for these programs. The programmers are eager to add a Western flavor in a variety of ways, from set designs to proper English pronunciations. You might shoot and edit videos and documentaries or work on the floor during newscasts. Some of these shows target at-risk youth, warning them about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. This project has been producing sport, live interview and entertainment shows for several years. Youll take a very hands-on role: assisting the director with film production, taking part in editing work, and teaching some English to other staff members. New Choice is a 100% Mongolian NGO and NPO.
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month summer camp (June, July and August). The Orphanage Camp provides social, educational, sport and opportunities to the orphaned children during their summer holidays. Volunteers main work is to teach English in the mornings and join in leisure activities in the afternoons and evenings. Also volunteers will join in sports and cultural activities including hiking, singing, etc. Organization: New Choice Mongolian Volunteer Organization Location: Ulaanbaatar Cost: $495 per month Duration: 2 to 8 weeks Age: 17 Contact: info@volunteer.org.mn, +976 11 314577 Learn more: www.volunteer.org.mn Details: This is the only state orphanage for children ages 6-17 in the whole of Mongolia. The kids lives at the orphanage all day. The aim is to provide both a home and education for the children. When possible the orphanage also tries to find the natural parents of the children. The volunteers main work is to help kids do homework, wash clothes (daily work), play with the children, organize activities (song, dance and music) and to teach English to the children.
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Myanmar
Organizations offering projects in Myanmar: Action Against Hunger: www.actionagainsthunger.org Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Kids Alive International: www.kidsalive.org Spain Exchange (student programs in Spain and abroad) www.spainexchange.com Volunteer in Asia (long-term): www.viaprograms.org
Nepal
Bringing Primary Healthcare in the Hidden Himalayas
Organization: The Nepal Trust Location: Humla District, Nepal Cost: Depends on time and availability for tailor-made package Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: admin@nepaltrust.org, Tel: 0131 467 4020 Learn more: www.nepaltrust.org Special skills: Any person with medical qualifications (e.g. GP, Doctor, Nurse, Medical
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Student) is welcome and needed! Details: For the last 15 years The Nepal Trust has been working in Humla District, one of Nepals most remote and impoverished areas to bring basic healthcare to those in need. The Nepal Trust has been working continuously during this period, despite the disruptions caused by the Maoist conflict. Being one of our volunteers, your main aim is to help our organization and local health workers to reinstate and develop primary healthcare provision, with a main focus on maternal and child health, family planning, control of communicable diseases, poverty reduction and improved nutrition. Your expertise will greatly increase the knowledge of our local health workers (who you will assist in a local Himalayan village), who on their turn can pass their knowledge on within their communities.
Compassion Orphanage
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Phutung, near Kathmandu Cost: $30 booking, $300 per month and $100 administrative fee upon arrival. A discount will be offered to longer term volunteers. Duration: 1 month or more Age: 18, kids over 10 welcome with parent Contact: compassion@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: asia.kidsworldwide.org/nepalcompassion.htm Details: Contribute you time and skills offering education and shelter to orphans, poor, lower caste and disadvantaged children. Many of the childrens backgrounds are full of pain and sorrow. Compassion Nepal helps to educate them and provides them food and accommodations. They will look after the children until they finish their university. Volunteers can teach two hours every morning and two hours in the evening. You can also help by teaching the children different games, songs in English, basic education, drawing and other activities. You can also help with writing newsletters, fundraising and administrative work.
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Duration: 1 week to 5 months Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@volunteerhq.org Learn more: www.volunteerhq.org Details: More than 80% of children from Nepal's villages and cities are unable to access a good educational system. This is due to a lack of financial and physical resources as well as the remote mountain geography of Nepal. Volunteers participating in the Nepal Premier Teaching English program will teach English at Nepali public or private schools, depending on the need for volunteers at the time. Volunteers can also assist with creating low cost teaching materials for the school and help organize health checkups for students. Teaching English volunteers are more than welcome to participate in other school activities such as sports or sanitation programs while they work at the school. Many volunteers teach English in the mornings before arranging sports, drama and songs in the afternoon.
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groups, usually with minimal supervision. Often you'll also work alongside villagers, learning about traditional methods of building and working. Examples of projects include school repair and decoration; toilet building; drinking water projects; road drainage projects; recycling projects, etc. You can also take more of an environmental education focus by informing children about appropriate waste disposal, recycling, composting and creating vegetable and flower gardens in the childrens homes.
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around the city and attending Nepali classes. You then travel into one of the rural valleys where volunteers work on a rural development project, before heading to the Chitwan National Park, to take an elephant back safari to look for the endangered Bengal Tiger. The final two weeks of the trip is a trek to Everest Base Camp a once in a lifetime opportunity!
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Palestinian Territories
Permaculture in Palestine
Organization: Bustan Qaraaqa Location: Wadi Hanna Saad, a green valley in the town of Beit Sahour, close to the city of Bethlehem in the West Bank of the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Cost: $20 per day or $400 per month for longer stays including all food Duration: Open from a few days to a few months or even a year Age: 18, unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@bustanqaraaqa.org Learn more: www.bustanqaraaqa.org Details: Bustan Qaraaqa is an initiative to propagate a grassroots environmental movement in the Palestinian Territories to help address the pressing humanitarian and environmental crises in the area. Bustan Qaraaqa is establishing a permaculture centre for demonstration of and experimentation with cheap and easy techniques for sustainable living and food production. In addition, they are working with partners in the local community to help raise environmental consciousness and implement projects that make a real difference to peoples lives. Volunteers will join a lively, international team working both at the Bustan Qaraaqa farm and in the local community and learning about permaculture and the situation in Palestine
Trek Program
Organization: Paidia International Development Location: Beit Sahour, West Bank Cost: $2,850 for 3 months, $4,725 for 6 months, $8,675 for 12 months; includes all living expenses. Duration: 3 to 12 months Age: 19, or one year of university Contact: volunteers@paidia.org Learn more: www.pidev.org Details: Visit Palestine and spend your time making a difference in peoples lives! Paidias Trek Program offers participants the unique
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opportunity to invest in the lives of a needy community while living in and exploring one of the most fascinating regions of the world. Paidia uses experiential learning and adventure recreation to transform communities by transforming individuals within the community. Participants will live together in dorm style housing in an Arab neighborhood. Paidias Trek Program offers many opportunities and ways to get involved in the local community, both inside and outside of work hours. Year-round opportunities are available in several different areas, including media projects, development, and program facilitators. Other organizations offering projects in the Palestinian Territories: American Near East Refugee Aid: www.anera.org Karama Organization for Women and Children Development: www.karama.org/eng Palestine Summer Encounters (list of organizations offering projects) www.palestinesummer.org/volunteer Project Hope: www.projecthope.ps Tent of Nations: www.tentofnations.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Philippines
Pag-Amoma Childrens Place
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: The fruit and orchid city of the south - Davao, Philippines Cost: 1st month $250, succeeding months $25, includes accommodation, but does not include meals; volunteers stay on site to help with the care of the children. Duration: 2+ weeks, 1+ month Age: 20 Contact: pagamoma@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: asia.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: Female only volunteers please. A warm and loving personality, ready to care for toddlers and young children Details: Pag-Amoma Children's Place provides a nurturing home for "lumad" (indigenous) children who are orphaned, abandoned, neglected or victims of a violent home. They have around 20 children in their care. Children's Place is unique compared to other orphanages in Davao
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Field of Dreams
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Tugbok, on the outskirts of Davao Cost: Less than a month $250, 1st month $280, succeeding months $30 Includes accommodations, but not meals Duration: 2 week minimum, 1+ month preferred Age: 18+, or kids over 10 welcome with parent Contact: field@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: asia.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: Willingness to participate and learn in all the activities. Details: Field of Dreams is the newest orphanage in Davao. They currently look after 27 boys ranging in age from 3 - 18 years. They cater exclusively to boys, as there is already a girls home in Tugbok, run by Polish nuns. Along with the children's home, their hope is to provide comprehensive external recreational facilities to enrich the childrens lives. Volunteers can assist with some of the following activities: website design, fundraising, tutorials, gardening and farm management. Skills enhancement: dancing, drawing, voice lessons, musical instruments, karate etc. Assist in the kitchen, laundry and help the house mother/father.
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Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: Various locations in the laid back archipelagic province of Romblon-one of the poorest provinces in Philippines or short-term volunteers will be placed in and around the capital city of Manila. Cost: $732 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: The Philippines is one of the world's biodiversity hot-spots. GVNs Marine Sanctuary Project has been set up by their partner in San Agustin (Romblon). The town's main economic activity is fishing but its traditional fishing grounds already show signs of fish stock depletion due to destructive fishing practices, such as the use of fine nets and dynamite fishing. This is now being countered by the establishment of a marine sanctuary between the villages of Carmen and Long Beach. First, volunteers help operate a nursery for the propagation of mangrove seedlings. Second, they help reforest mangrove sites by planting. Third, they help in implementing the marine sanctuary project with regular patrols, beach cleanups and education on the needs and benefits of the project.
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Organization: World Endeavors Location: Tacloban City Cost: $1,237+ Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: inquiry@worldendeavors.com Learn more: www.worldendeavors.com Details: Make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged women in the Philippines. Volunteers work at a center that provides rehabilitation and support for women and teenage girls who have been victims of exploitation and abuse. A recent project included therapy through artwork; each volunteer is encouraged to contribute his/her unique skills. One of the main goals of the center is to reintegrate the women into the workforce and community by providing skills training. Participants have the opportunity to stay with a local host family who provides two meals a day and help to introduce the volunteer to Filipino culture.
Deaf Education
Organization: World Endeavors Special skills: Individuals with sign language skills are needed to help tutor students. Participants with little to no signing abilities are also needed to help support the program. Location: Tacloban City Cost: $1,237+ Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: inquiry@worldendeavors.com Learn more: www.worldendeavors.com
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Thresher Shark Research and Conservation Project: web.mac.com/spoliver/Site/expeditions.html Volunteer for the Visayans: www.visayans.org Volunteering Solutions: www.volunteeringsolutions.com
Asia
Singapore
Wild Animal Rescue Project
Organization: Animal Concerns Research and Education Society Cost: $25 per day Project Duration: 1+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@acres.org.sg Learn more: www.acres.org.sg Details: This is your chance to get involved with people passionate about animal rescue. Volunteers are needed to assist with the running of ACRES, i.e. preparing food, cleaning enclosures, feeding and observing rescued wild animals, and general upkeep of the centre (gardening etc.) Volunteers may also assist with giving guided tours and helping to deliver educational programmes to school groups. In addition, ACRES needs help with fundraising, delivering education programmes, manning public road shows, general office duties and organizing and running events. Other organizations offering projects in Singapore: International YMCA (Go Global): www.internationalymca.org Take Me to Volunteer Travel: www.takemetovolunteertravel.com
South Korea
Angels Haven Care for Developmentally Disabled
Organization: Inter Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Location: South Korea Cost: $6,300 for 6 months or $7,500 for 12 months; dormitory accommodation Duration: 6 or 12 months Age: 18-30 Contact: international@icye.co.uk Learn more: www.icye.org.uk Special skills: Must be female and willing to learn the Korean language
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Sri Lanka
Veterinary Spay/Neuter Field Clinic
Organization: Tsunami Animal-People Alliance Location: Mobile Cost: None Duration: 2+ weeks Contact: info@tsunami-animal.org Learn more: www.tsunami-animal.org Special skills: Experienced veterinarians, vet nurses and techs only. Volunteers must be "low maintenance." Details: TAPAs tented field clinic does about 35 spay/neuters per day, about 50% street dogs caught with nets, and 50% owner dogs. Vet and vet nurse volunteers would join our team of ten (which includes three vets) in conducting the sterilizations and bringing in new ideas. Their protocols were originally developed by vets from Australia and New Zealand, and have been refined over time. TOPAs goal is to vaccinate and sterilize five to six thousand animals per year, educate regarding responsible pet ownership, and raise awareness of the link between the welfare of the animals in a community and the welfare of the people.
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Tajikistan
Organizations offering projects in Tajikistan: Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org/ivp Medical Teams International: www.medicalteams.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org
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Thailand
Fun with Dogs: Shelter Help
Organization: Care For Dogs Location: Chiang Mai Cost: None Duration: 1+ days Age: 18 Contact: contact@carefordogs.org Learn more: www.carefordogs.org Special skills: A love of animals and a caring heart rganization Details: Care For Dogs is a volunteer-based nonprofit or located outside of Chiang Mai, Thailand which strives to l limit the suffering of street dogs through medical assistance, preve entative health care, adoptions and spays. By offering your time at the shelter you will ir have the opportunity to socialize the dogs, improving thei social skills, which helps to alleviate boredom, and build up their confi idence around people, which makes them more adoptable and sets them up for building m successful relationships in their forever homes. You can a also help bathe, clean, feed and much more all while learning about the iss sues faced by animals and animal shelters in SE Asia. Longer term oppo ortunities (1 week or more) for experienced trainers who practice posi itive training techniques may also be available for the right volunteers. Editors Note: Care for Dogs is one of this authors fa avorite places to volunteer. The environment is casual. Be it socializing dog at the shelter gs or participating in recues among the stunning Wat temple of Northern es Thailand, volunteers would be hard pressed to find an eas way to sier make a difference while escaping the typical trappings of t tourism.
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clinic. They are seeking experienced veterinarians who are people-oriented (and possibly shelter-experienced!) to volunteer on-site performing physical examinations, diagnosing health issues, deciding on the course of treatment, dispensing medication, and performing spays. CFD also needs veterinary technicians who can assist the veterinarian. This opportunity is a great way to build a resume!
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Contact: volunteering@ihfonline.org Learn more: www.ihfonline.org Details: Learn the realities of international poverty by serving at our orphanage and education center where you will live, learn, teach and play with the children who call it home. Center tasks and needs vary widely, and you are certain to find a niche according to your skills. As IHF is entirely volunteer-run, you will be asked to serve on various online task teams, such as advertising and photography, which will grant you a unique insight into how an international nonprofit operates.
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Details: The Asian Elephant is only thriving in Thailand due to the work ers of a few organizations. This program gives voluntee a chance to help with this massive effort at a Thai-run elephant cam Volunteers live mp. onsite in tree houses that lean out over the river and they assist the hill tribe staff with bathing and feeding schedules Monday through Friday. Volunteers also work to educate visitors and make sure that they are interacting safely with the animals. Some volunteers teach an hour or two of English at the local hill tribe school. Other volunteers will stay atthe park and te each English to the elephant trainers and other staff. Volunteers may b asked to help out be with other areas of the elephant camp during their volunteer service and should be open to diversity.
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school. Using the tools and seeds donated by Naucrates, the children are able to eventually sell their vegetables in town with pride.
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Asia
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: Kao Look Chang, Petchaburi, near Cha-am & Hua-hin Cost: $747 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: The Global Volunteer Network has opportunities available to work with wild animals through their partner organization in Thailand. Most of the animals residing at the sanctuary were maltreated before they arrived here, suffering from abuse, malnutrition, neglect and improper care, rescued from the illegal pet trade, or have previously been exploited for the tourism industry. Many of the animals arrive with permanent disabilities and hence, cannot be returned to the wild. Animals you can expect to work with at the sanctuary include a variety of macaques, two species of gibbon, several species of civets, loris, leopard cats, tigers, bears, crocodiles and exotic birds.
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help monitor the beach for turtle nests, learn how to identify turtle tracks, find nesting turtles, and record tag numbers. Volunteers live in small huts near the work site. Rooms will be shared with two to three fellow volunteers. The work site also has Internet access and satellite television.
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Teaching Monks
Organization: Friends for Asia Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand Cost: $695 for two weeks, $100 for each additional week Duration: 2 to 26 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@friendsforasia.org Learn more: www.friendsforasia.org Special skills: Volunteers should be proficient in written and spoken English, as well as creative considering there is an incredible lack of teaching materials within the school. Details: Our volunteers teach novice Buddhist monks, from age 12-18, at five different monastery schools. You will have the choice of either leading your own class or assisting a Thai teacher in his or her daily lessons. Your placement is completely dependent upon your level of
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comfort within the classroom. Depending upon your educational background, you may also want to teach art or help in other subject areas and activities that may be occurring at the school during you service. It is important to the school administration that volunteers aid in English education at the school, but also that volunteers receive a rich education about Thailand, Thai culture and Buddhism during their service. For this reason, be prepared to learn as much as you teach.
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Asia
Organization: OpenmindProjects Location: NongKhai Cost: $1,200 per month Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@openmindprojects.org Learn more: www.openmindprojects.org or upload.openmindprojects.org/volunteerpackage Special Skills: An understanding and interest in eco tourism and environmental/wildlife protection. Ability to go trekking on field trips, IT, Environmental Impact Assessment, Geographic Information System, Watershed Planning Details: Volunteer at national parks in Thailand, with community based, sustainable ecotourism and wildlife conservation projects. OpenmindProjects works with national parks and specialists such as zoologists, marine biologists, botanists, sustainable ecotourism experts, GIS, EIA, IT/database specialists, are welcome, along with others who have less expertise and a good command of English. Projects focus on preparing the national parks for overseas eco-tourists. Qualified volunteers participate in wildlife surveying marine survey diving, Environmental Impact Assessment and assisting with Geographic Information System applications.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die English Education Service-Learning Program
Organization: Global Service Corps Location: Singburi Cost: 6 weeks $3,140; weekly fee after 9 weeks $415, after 13 weeks $255 Duration: 6 to 6 months Age: 20 or 18 with three letters of recommendation Contact: thailand@globalservicecorps.org Learn more: www.globalservicecorps.org Special skills: No special skills required, just a commitment to service Details: The English Education Program begins with a two day tour of Bangkok and continues with two weeks of orientation and training in Singburi. The first week of the training is dedicated to learning about Thai customs, including social do's and don'ts, and acquiring basic Thai conversation skills. During this time participants will tour local historical sites, get to know the other program participants and be informed in detail about specific program placement and associated projects. In the second week participants are provided training in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The training is followed by four or more weeks of teaching basic and conversational English to either primary or secondary school students. Semi-private, group and homestay accommodations are available.
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then divide their time between GSCs Buddhist Immersion program, Teach English Abroad program or Orphanage Care projects with a minimum commitment of two weeks each.
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Elephant Sanctuary
Organization: Greenforce Location: Thailand Cost: $750+ Duration: 1+ week Age: 17 Contact: info@greenforce.org Learn more: www.greenforce.org Details: It wasnt long ago that elephants in Thailand were abundant and able to roam freely. Now, there are less than 3000 in the entire country, which are being forced to live in smaller and more confined spaces. Wild elephants have to compete with local villagers and there are now many domesticated elephants must perform tricks for tourists in order to survive. Our team on the ground has adopted several elephants and uses them to raise awareness and to educate the local people. Volunteers are needed to walk, clean and feed the elephants, but more importantly to show them some TLC. With the elephant population dwindling into endangerment, now is your chance to have an elephant shower and to witness why elephants have always been such a sacred animal.
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Asia
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai Cost: $1,900 per person, based on sharing a room, excluding flights. Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but veterinary skills are desirable Details: Elephant Nature Park is a unique project established in the 1990's to provide a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants. Volunteer jobs are varied, from bathing elephants to basic health care. Help these beautiful creatures and gain an insight into Thai culture as you get to know the people who permanently care for the elephants. Sample the generous hospitality of these remarkable people and immerse yourself in local and tribal lifestyles. This special experience will form an integral part of your trip, and in addition you get to spend the remainder of this journey trekking, bamboo rafting, visiting hill tribes and exploring towns and markets.
Village Vitality
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Mae Hong Son Cost: $2,150 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/in 15 day trip) Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL) or civil engineering skills are desirable Details: Immerse yourself in an ethnic hill tribe community in Mae Hong Son province. Enjoy a fun and authentic journey, learning about the community's relationship with the land and discover how this has influenced their traditional arts and crafts. Your volunteering experience will promote your understanding of these wonderful people, as you work alongside them on varied projects. Enjoy the looks of delight and appreciation on the childrens faces as you teach and interact. The intimate moments with the children and the rest of the community will be treasured memories for you. You will also participate in Thai cooking classes, treks, canal trips, city tours and white water rafting.
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Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Sangkhlaburi, northwest Thailand, near the Burmese border. Cost: $2,700 per person, based on sharing a room, excluding flights. Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL) or building skills are desirable ear Details: This volunteer project based in Sangkhlaburi ne the Burmese (Mynamar) border is a great opportunity to provide children of an orphanage (largely Burmese ethnic minority refugees) with an environment that is conducive to learning and nurtures their inquisitive nature. Let them touch your life as you help rebuild theirs. Your volunteer project is undoubtedly the highlight of this fabulous trip, but there are many more things to explore: you get to visit a sunken temple and an elephant camp, and then make yourself at home on a converted rice barge as it snakes its way down the beautiful Chao Phraya River. You also get to visit local markets and enjoy the hive of activity as villagers trade and socialize.
Thai Travels
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Khao Lak Cost: $2,850 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/15 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL), gardening or medical skills are desirable d Details: On Boxing Day 2004 a huge tsunami devastated vast tracts of coastline in Southeast Asia. Khao Lak was one of the wors affected areas st and an orphanage was set up in the aftermath to care for t children the who were orphaned by that tsunami. This is a great oppor rtunity to interact with these remarkable children and help make a r real difference in their lives. Their courage and resilience is astonishing a their smiles and
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will forever leave fond memories in your heart. Alongside this remarkable volunteer project you will also visit the hill tribes around Chiang Mai, ride elephants, marvel at the lush green hills on a bamboo raft and relax on stunning beaches.
Origins of Angkor
Organization: Earthwatch Institute Location: Rendezvous in Bangkok, Thailand Cost: $1,850 - $3,050+ Duration: 7 to 14 days Age: 18 Contact: info@earthwatch.org Learn more: www.earthwatch.org Details: By uncovering Southeast Asias past, youll learn how agriculture, technology and changing climates affect civilizations. Volunteers help excavate the rural Thai village of Ban Non Wat, a key site for understanding the origins of the Angkor Empire. Under the shade of a tarp, you will dig for human burials, food remains, pottery, metals and other artifacts. You will also screen and float sediments to isolate microscopic materials and will process your finds in the field lab. Youll work closely with local people and have a chance to truly experience Thai village life. At the end of the work day volunteers are driven back to town to shop at the local market, check your email, take a swim and enjoy a delicious Thai dinner.
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Turkey
English at Home
Organization: Tutor and Travel in Turkey Location: Varies Cost: $1,800 for 3 months Duration: 2 to 6 months Age: 18-28 Contact: esra@edurehber.com Learn more: tutorandtravel.com Special skills: Native English speaker Details: In this homestay exchange you will have room & board and meals are provided in exchange for 20 hours of unofficial English practice with the family/kids. TTT organizes a Turkey tour at the end of each program. You will have a chance to see at least 10 different cities, visit unforgettable places and have a vacation on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
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Other organizations offering projects in Tur rkey: Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk Dekeyser and Friends: dekeyserandfriends.com Educational Volunteers Foundation of Turkey: ww ww.tegv.org/v4/en GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Vietnam
Wildlife Conservation
Organization: Wildlife at Risk Location: Chu Chi and Kien Giang Province Cost: $200 per week form members, $300 for non nmembers Duration: Open Age: 18 Contact: khoi.ngugen@wildlifeatrisk.org o or chris@wildlifeatrisk.org ifeatrisk.org Learn more: www.wildli Details: Wildlife At Risk (WAR) is dedicated k to protecting the biodive ersity of Vietnam by combating the illegal wil ldlife trade, raising environmental awareness and promoting the s conservation of endangere species and their ed habitats. As a volunteer, yo will dedicate your ou time to assisting permanent staff in providing clean safe, natural n, environments for the rescued wildlife and be involv in many different ved activities. Volunteers learn a lot about endangered Vietnamese wildlife and why the animals are at the Rescue Station. The work is not e glamorous, but it s certainly rewarding to those wit true commitment to th the cause.
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organizing games for children, etc. Your creativity is highly appreciated, so you can contribute your ideas about fun games that children can enjoy. It is very important to let these disadvantaged children know and trust you, so you can share an understanding of their hardships in life and make your time there more meaningful. This will also be a good time for all of you to learn about different cultures from other people by working in a group with both Vietnamese and foreign volunteers.
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prosthetists, podiatrists and all people with a healthcare qualification are highly sought after in this Vietnam program.
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Organization: VISIONS Service Adventures Location: Varies zed Cost: $5,600+ Duration: 5 weeks, and customiz programs Age: Teens, customized programs for all ages Contact: info@VisionsServiceAdventures.com Learn more: www.VisionsServiceAdventures.com m Details: VISIONS Vietnam blends the bustle of his storic Hanoi with serene landscapes of rice paddies, rolling hills and mountains, jungles eflected centuries of and the coast. In the older generations faces are re perseverance and loyalty to tradition while the yout thful majority of Vietnamese seek to embrace Western, market-base principles. Service ed includes improvements to facilities for those disadv vantaged and disabled by the cross-generational effects of chemicals such as Agent Orange, and ness the wars assisting with classes for children. Participants witn remnant legacy while simultaneously experiencing the forward-looking historical sites; Ha character of the Vietnamese. Exploration includes h Long Bay, renowned for its beauty and geology; Sap an area of pa, multitudes of indigenous groups near the Chinese b boarder; the ancient capital of Hue; silk village of Hoi An; the DMZ.
Northern Cycling
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Hanoi Cost: $2,200 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/15 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com sh Special skills: None required, but teaching Englis as a second language (ESL), gardening, physical therapy or med dical skills are desirable o Details: A cycling trip is the perfect way to get into the natural pace of this stunning country and meet its inhabitants. You volunteer project is ur the final highlight. You get to spend four fulfilling d days assisting with repairs and renovations, gardening and teaching En nglish at the Vietnam Friendship Village. Some 500,000 Vietnamese chil ldren are thought to have been born with birth defects resulting from th use of Agent he Orange, a chemical defoliant deployed during the V Vietnam War. By
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charming Hoi An, historic Hue and delightful Hanoi are just some of the wonderful places to experience and enjoy. However, just as the hustle and bustle of Saigon is a symbol of Vietnams future, some 500,000 Vietnamese children are thought to have been born with birth defects resulting from the use of Agent Orange, a chemical defoliant deployed during the Vietnam War. By volunteering at the Friendship Village, you have the unique opportunity to directly improve the lives of some of those victims by teaching them English, assisting in the organic garden, or if you have medical or physical therapy skills you can directly help local childrens physical conditions. Stunning Halong Bay is your final stop. Other organizations offering projects in Vietnam: Global Medic Force: www.globalmedicforce.org Global Routes: www.globalroutes.org Globe Aware: www.globeaware.org i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com Kaya Responsible Travel: www.kayavolunteer.com Lattitude Global Volunteering Canada: www.lattitudecanada.org Medical Teams International: www.medicalteams.org Volunteering Solutions: www.volunteeringsolutions.com
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"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes." ~ Marcel Proust
Albania
Saving Albanias Ottoman Architecture
Organization: Adventures in Preservation Location: Historic section of Gjirokastra, in southern Albania Cost: $3,100 Duration: 2 weeks Age: 18 Contact: workshops@adventuresinpreservation.org Learn more: www.adventuresinpreservation.org Special skills: No skills necessary; training provided at the site Details: Albania, tightly closed to the outside world until the 1990s, is now a travel destination not to be missed. For many Albanian cities, the only means of survival is the development of heritage tourism. Gjirokastra is such a town. It depends on its remarkable Ottoman architecture, large stone tower houses built over a period of 500 years, to draw tourists. Once the Ottomans departed, the residents had no resources to maintain these amazing houses, and hundreds have been lost or are on the verge of collapse. AiP volunteers will work with an international team learning hands-on skills and using these skills to
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Bulgaria
Animal Rescue for Volunteer Hearts
Organization: Bulgarian Society for Animal Protection and Preservation Location: Sofia Cost: None Duration: 1+ week for at least 4 hrs per day Age: 16 Contact: bsappbg@hotmail.com Learn more: www.bsapp.org Special skills: Must speak English or Bulgarian and love animals. Details: BSAPP is one of the few animal protection organizations operating in Bulgaria today. Bulgaria has a long history of problems with dog and cat homelessness, neglect and abuse which continues today. The organization's focus is on the rescue of injured, abused, neglected and homeless dogs and cats as well as working to give them a second chance by placing them in loving homes. BSAPP is also a strong supporter of the sterilization of dogs and cats in order to control the population and thus
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provides low cost, no cost sterilizations at its clinic. They need people who are willing to get themselves dirty, cleaning, feeding, bathing and walking animals. And, if you like to do maintenance, painting and cleaning they would really love our help. A person who has fundraising or public relations experience and is good at office work is also very useful.
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Organization: WorldTeach Location: Bulgaria Cost: $3,990 Duration: 2 months (late June- late August) Age: 18-24 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Fluent English skills Details: WorldTeach Bulgaria volunteers will spend the summer in urban and rural areas, teaching teenage and younger orphans English, computer literacy, and practical life skills through interactive approaches stimulating students' creativity and personal development. Volunteers can either teach at local foster homes or participate in the STEP Bulgaria program (Summer Teaching English) which brings together about 40 teenagers from five different orphanages across the country. STEP Bulgaria focuses on developing students' language, technical and practical life skills to facilitate their integration into society once they leave their state institutions. In addition to interacting with their students on a daily basis, WorldTeach volunteers will have the assistance of local Bulgarian university students and high school students also volunteering for the program.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Restoration & Documentation of Ancient Pottery Workshop
Organization: Balkan Heritage Field School Location: Emona on the Black Sea Cost: $1,650 Duration: 2 weeks Age: 18, 16 with parental consent Contact: balkanheritage@gmail.com Learn more: www.bhfieldschool.org Special skills: Basic drawing skills are a plus Details: The workshop will guide the participants through the history of ancient Greek and Roman pottery, its production and consequent stages of archaeological conservation, documentation, study and restoration. Both the theoretical and practical courses will be based on pottery from the museums inventories, found in various ancient (Ancient Greek, Hellenistic, Roman and Late Roman) sites in present day Bulgaria. The project includes 3 modules: practical work in documentation and restoration of ancient Greek and Roman pottery, educational course (lectures, trainings, study - and behindthe-scenes visits) and excursions to the ancient coastal towns of Nessebar (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sozopol and Varna. Included are all educational and fieldwork activities, tools and materials, accommodation and meals, excursions, sightseeing tours and entrance fees as well as administrative costs.
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as well as the town and lake of Ohrid (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Included are educational and fieldwork activities, accommodations, meals, excursions, sightseeing tours, entrance fees as well as administrative costs.
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Croatia
Organizations offering projects in Croatia: A Pas de Loup: www.apasdeloup.org Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk International Student Volunteers: www.isvonline.com Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Czech Republic
Organizations offering projects in the Czech Republic: Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk Earthwatch Institute: www.earthwatch.org International Internship & Volunteer Network: www.iivnetwork.com
France
Service-Learning Experience on the French Mediterranean
Organization: Institut Mediterraneen de Langues & Services (IMLS) Location: Montpellier (France) Cost: $2,240 - $9,900 including homestay (1/2 board), excursions and insurance Duration: 1 to 4 months Age: 18 Contact: imls@imls.fr Learn more: www.imls.fr Details: A meaningful project and a growing experience: 1) improve your language skills 2) develop intercultural awareness by living in a homestay family 3) link up theory (course on French institutions) and experience learning by: participating in recreation activities (hospital for children, retirement home), tutoring (hospital for children, schools) and helping out the handicapped persons. This is an unforgettable travel and give-back experience in a region renowned for its rich historical heritage, its prestigious medieval university and cultural festivals on the shores of the Mediterranean.
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Other organizations offering projects in France: AmeriSpan Study Abroad (internship): www.amerispan.com The Art Farm: www.theartfarm.info GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org La Sabranenque: www.sabranenque.com Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com United Planet: www.unitedplanet.org Work Away: www.workaway.info
Europe
Germany
Teach at the Waldorf School
Organization: Experiential Learning International Location: Enkenbach-Alsenborn Cost: Starting at $1,685 Duration: 4+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Special skills: Intermediate German skills, fluent English language skills Details: This is a private elementary and secondary school run according to the anthroposophic principles of Rudolf Steiner. Gain insight into the Waldorf methodology while improving your German language skills. While teaching you will live with a local family. There are endless places to visit and the superb German transportation system makes it easy to see the country. Other organizations offering projects in Germany: Amizade (Auschwitz Museum): www.amizade.org Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects: www.cadip.org Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com
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Greece
Karpathos Island Animal Rescue
Organization: Animal Welfare Karpathos Location: Karpathos Island Cost: None Duration: Open Age: 18 Contact: secretary@animalwelfarekarpathos.org Learn more: www.animalwelfarekarpathos.org Details: Animal Welfare Karpathos was started because the island was full of strays. Volunteer vets come twice a year to neuter/spay. After almost a decade, real progress can be seen. AWK welcomes vet techs and veterinarians, but most of their volunteers are not trained. Someone with a farm background would be wonderful, because in addition to dogs and cats, AWK receives sheep, goats, donkeys and cows. There are never enough helpers to give the dogs baths and haircuts or to trim their nails. You can also assist in their clinic or pick up medications at the pharmacy. During May and September volunteers may trap cats and dogs for neutering/spaying, maintain comprehensive record of where they were found and return them following recovery from surgery.
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running and coordinating of the race and extra activities of Transnatura (concerts, festivals and more).
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Iceland
Whales and Tourism
Organization: The Hsavk Whale Museum Location: Hsavk and the Bay of Skjlfandi, Northeast Iceland Cost: None Age: 20 Contact: info@whalemuseum.is Learn more: www.w whalemuseum.is Special skills: Preferably students or post-graduates in marine biology, biology, museology, graphic design or marketing. Details: The Hsavk Whale Museum is a non-profit organization established in 1997 to form an educational component to whale watching tours operated from Hsavk. The Museums mission is to educate the o public about the marine ecosystem and cetacean species i inhabiting the worlds oceans. The museum has been constantly growing with an g emphasis on education and science. The educational comp ponent presents informative and attractive exhibits that raise awa areness about cetaceans and their environment. The museum operates a research program in cooperation with the University of Iceland Research Centre in Hsavk as well as international institutions. Volunteer play an rs important part in the museums research w working on data collection, processing and catalog guing. The museum was formally acknow wledged as an educational facility by the Ic celandic Ministry of Education in 200 Volunteers 07. travel at their own expense a get lodging and on site, but have to provide th own meals. heir
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Organization: SEEDS Iceland Location: Reykjavk and around Iceland Cost: $200 Duration: 2 weeks Age: 18 (under 18 considered with parental consent) Contact: seeds@seedsiceland.org Learn more: www.seedsiceland.org Special skills: None. Volunteers just need a digital camera. Details: In the past the SEEDS Photomarathon has proved very successful, combining volunteering work around Reykjavk, photography lessons, photography excursions and, finally, a public exhibition of photographs from the camp. The camp is intended to raise awareness of volunteering and environmental issues in Iceland. SEEDS Iceland hopes to expand the Photomarathon project, running more camps over the summer in more locations around the country.
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environment of the area with help from volunteers and academic researchers from around the world. Work will initially be mainly on reforestation, but it is very likely that on completion of the planting, other activities will be undertaken such as: traditional turf wall construction, stone wall construction, path building and maintenance, lupine control, preparation of an organic vegetable garden and cleaning of the coast line. The beauty of this place cannot be described.
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famous sights on the journeys there and back.
Europe
Italy
Sea Turtle Preservation & Education
Organization: A.R.C.H.E Location: Italian Coast Cost: From 200 euros per week Duration: Open Age 24 Contact: archeturtle@archeturtle.org
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behavioural data, environmental information and recording sounds, video or photos. If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity that incorporates boat-based field work, marine mammal research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work hard, have fun, and learn from the dolphins and each other, then consider volunteering with the BDRI. The fee includes accommodation in an apartment, dolphin research training, certificate of attendance, printed material and all associated field and laboratory costs during your stay. Food is available at the local supermarkets within walking distance at your own expense
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Poland
Youth Camp in Poland
Organization: Experiential Learning International Location: Krakow Cost: $795 Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Details: You will begin your adventure in Krakow, with 2 days of orientation before heading to a camp located in or very near the Tatra mountains. Once there, you'll join trained Polish counselors who also work and live at the site. Facilities will be simple but adequate. You'll live in summer resort-type housing (not tents) with meals served cafeteriastyle. The camp operates July through August, with 4 two-week sessions in all. There will be approximately 20 children in each session, divided by age into 2 groups. ELI is looking to place two volunteers per session you can sign up for just one two-week session or the entire two months, it's up to you.
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Classes are open to the entire community, allowing students with a wide range of pre-existing English skills to participate. Housing, meals and language immersion provided with host family. Other organizations offering projects in Poland: Global Volunteer Network: www.volunteer.org.nz Global Volunteer Projects: www.globalvolunteerprojects.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org IBO Italia: www.iboitalia.org Lattitude Global Volunteering Canada: www.lattitudecanada.org Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com Wolves and Humans: www.wolvesandhumans.org
Portugal
One Million Seeds for the Ca Valley
Organization: ATN (Associao Transumncia e Natureza) Location: Faia Brava Reserve, Algodres village, Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, Guarda district, Northeast Portugal Cost: $70 registration fee, no extra charge for up to 1 month in duration Duration: 2+ week Age: 18 Contact: voluntarios@atnatureza.org Learn more: www.ATNatureza.org Details: Vast areas of Portugal have been devastated by fire. The Faia Brava Reserve, managed by ATN, has been particularly affected by a massive fire in 2003. Today they can still see the effects on the landscape, habitats and biodiversity. ATN has been developing a woodland protection project called Faia Brava Woodland. Now you have the opportunity to actively participate as a volunteer in this project, through the program 1 Million Seeds for the Ca Valley. With your support, they want to work on woodland recovery by planting native trees and sowing seeds directly on the ground. The major goal of this initiative is to collect and sow 1 million seeds of native trees in the next 5 years, in an area of about 500 ha.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Faia Brava Fauna Monitoring Programme
Organization: ATN (Associao Transumncia e Nature eza) Location: Faia Brava Reserve, Algodres village, Figueira de Castelo a Rodrigo, Guarda district, Northeast Portugal Cost: $70 registration fee, no extra charge for up to 1 month in duration Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: voluntarios@atnatureza.org Learn more: www.ATNatureza.org Details: ATN has dedicated the last 6 years to the creation of a private nature reserve, which now includes around 600 ha of land. ATNs main aim is to increase biodiversity levels and to maintain eagle and vulture populations. This area is very important as a breeding site for Bonellis Eagles and Egyptian vultures. With your support, ATN will do the annual fauna survey at the Faia Brava Reserve (cliff-breeding birds, rabbit, partridge and pigeon populations), cliff-breeders nest surveillance and o other secondary tasks (pigeon houses maintenance, horse feeding, etc.). W your help With they hope to contribute to the conservation of the traditio onal agroforestry mosaic, thus protecting fauna and flora species th depend on hat it. Support them, by becoming a part of the ATN team!
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team, helping ATN in the daily surveillance and secondary tasks (tree watering, pigeon houses maintenance, horse feeding, etc.).
Romania
Rasarit Kindergarten
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Village of Panatau, and Bucharest, Romania
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Learn more: www.cast-uk.com Special skills: Volunteers need to have some expe erience of working with children or adults with disabilities before takin part in this project ng Details: This is CASTs longest standing project an they have been nd working with some of the children for nearly six yea Many of the ars. children previously lived in the state-run orphanag but after many of ges, these were closed down the children were moved in smaller homes. nto Volunteers split their time between visiting these h homes and visiting the adult institutions which the children are moved to o once they reach eighteen. You live and work in groups of ten to arra ange activities for the children and adults which provide both entertainm ment and stimulation in their otherwise monotonous lives. All volunteers ar given training in re Intensive Interaction and Behavioral & Emotional M Management Training prior to the trip.
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Russia
Mountain Ghosts: Snow Leopards and other Animals
Organization: Biosphere Expeditions Location: Altai Mountains of Central Asia Cost: $2,720 Duration: 2 weeks (you may join for multiple expeditions) Age: Adults Contact: info@biosphere-expeditions.org Learn more: www.biosphere-expeditions.org Special skills: Open to all who care enough to
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become actively involved in conservation Details: Volunteers will journey high into the mountains of Central Asia to survey Snow Leopards and their prey animals such as the Argali Mountain Sheep and the Altai Ibex, as well as other animals including marmots and birds. You will be working as part of a small international team from a base camp set at 2,300 m at the foot of a 3,500 m remote mountain range and overlooking a vast area of open steppe. You will be covering ground in Land Rovers and on foot, looking for tracks, kills, scats and the animals themselves. True expedition-style base camp conditions, testing but satisfying mountain surveying, off road driving and variable mountain weather, make this our most challenging (and very rewarding) expedition. Editors note: A first-hand account of this volunteer experience can be read in The Voluntary Traveler: Adventures from the Road Best Traveled. Other organizations offering projects in Russia: Action Against Hunger: www.actionagainsthunger.org American Jewish World Services: ajws.org CCUSA (camp counselors): www.ccusa.com Cross-Cultural Solutions: www.crossculturalsolutions.org Earth Island Institute: www.earthisland.org Ecologia Youth Trust: www.ecologia.org.uk GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org Great Baikal Trail: www.greatbaikaltrail.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org Kids Around the World (building playgrounds): www.kidsaroundtheworld.com Project Hope (health): www.projecthope.org Volunteer in Russia: www.volunteer-in-russia.com
Slovakia
Wolf Census Project
Organization: Slovak Wildlife Society Location: Carpathian Mountains Cost: $400 for 2 weeks Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18-50 Contact: info@slovakwildlife.org
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Special skills: Open to all who care enough to become actively involved in conservation Details: In the Tatra Mountains of Slovakia, you will monitor wolf and lynx populations and their interrelationship with prey species. You will be part of a small international team, working with the local scientist and contributing to an important piece of research. Volunteers track large carnivores through snow in the forest and meadow habitats of the mountains, using snow shoes which are easy to use. You will also learn how to recognize and record other signs of their presence, such as scats and scent markings, collect samples to study their diet and for genetic analysis, and survey prey species, all this is done in an effort to create a sustainable future for these icons of the Carpathian wilderness and to promote greater understanding of their role in European ecosystems. Editors notes: Biosphere Expeditions Winter Wolf and Lynx Tracking expedition appeared in the November 2009 issue of National Geographic Adventure Magazine, featuring the 25 Best New Trips in the World. Other organizations offering projects in Slovakia: Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk Freedom House/AVID: www.freedomhouse.org People and Water: www.peopleandwater.sk Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org Wolves and Humans Foundation (zoologists): www.wolvesandhumans.org
Slovenia
Organizations offering projects in Slovenia: Adventures in Preservation: www.heritageconservation.net Architects without Borders: www.awb.iohome.net International Student Volunteers: www.isvonline.com Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance: www.vegaalliance.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
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Spain
Volunteer in La Casita Verde
Organization: Greenheart Travel of Location: The project is located on the beautiful island o Ibiza Cost: $1,890 for 6 weeks Duration: 3 to 9 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@greenhearttravel.org ex.aspx Learn more: www.cci-exchange.com/travelabroad/inde Special skills: Volunteers must be in excellent physical c condition and willing to engage in heavy manual labor involved with con nservation efforts. Volunteers must also have previous outdoor envir ronmental conservation experience. alled La Casita Details: Volunteers work on a model ecological center ca Verde in one of the most beautiful areas of the island. A w working farm created to demonstrate sustainable ecological developmen it is powered nt; by wind and sun energy and recycles all the water used by residents and y its many visitors. The center supports Greenheart projects in ecological ng research, as well as volunteer efforts such as beach cleanin and environmental education programs. Sample volunteer pro ojects include: maintaining and improving the farm facilities, installing a alternative energy systems, promoting environmental awareness amo visitors, ong cooking for visiting groups and permacultural farming. M Modest, rustic housing on site and 3 vegetarian meals daily are provided d.
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Other organizations offering projects in Spain: Adelante Abroad: www.adelanteabroad.com ArchaeoSpain (archeology): www.archaeospain.com Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects: www.cadip.org Coined-Spain: www.coined-spain.org Global Crossroads: www.globalcrossroad.com Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk Pueblo Ingles: www.morethanenglish.com Sunseed (permaculture technologies to arid/desert regions): www.sunseed.org.uk
Ukraine
Orphanage Volunteering/English Teaching
Organization: Ukrainian Humanitarian Initiative Location: Kiev, Lviv, Simferopol, Odessa, Dnipropetrovsk Cost: $250 per week Duration: 1 to 6 weeks Age: 17 Contact: golos_ukr@mail.ru Learn more: www.hope.ck.ua Details: Spend your time with orphan kids and explore a beautiful country. As a volunteer on this project there are going to be loads of different activities you can get involved with. You may help teach English to kids of all ages, play with children so they gain confidence and learn to interact better with people, and arrange extra classes such as dance/music/drama and sports. You can also help with the day to day running of the orphanage, getting involved wherever help is needed. UHI has partnerships with several orphanages where you can volunteer, spend your time in just the one or mix it up. Volunteers have the option of staying with local host families. Local people are well known for their kindness and hospitality and they will help you understand their culture. Other organizations offering projects in the Ukraine: Concordia: www.concordia-iye.org.uk Family Health International: www.fhi.org Life2Orphans: www.life2orphans.org Project Hope (health): www.projecthope.org Reach Ukraine (evangelical): www.reachukraine.org US Energy Association: www.usea.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
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United Kingdom
Scotland Conservation Work Weeks
Organization: Trees for Life Location: The Caledonian Forest, Scottish Highlands Cost: From $100 (unemployed/student rate) to $500 full cost Duration: 1 week Age: 18 Contact: info@treesforlife.org.uk, (UK) 01309 691444 Learn more: www.treesforlife.org.uk Special skills: A reasonable level of fitness is essential a an interest and in conservation would be useful Details: The Caledonian Forest needs you! Trees for Life is an award winning conservation charity based in the north of Scotland carrying out vital forest restoration work. Volunteers are invited to join Conservation Work Weeks to help restore the natural environment. Spend a week in the Highlands amongst forests, rivers and mountains, learning about ecological restoration. Work includes tree planting, felling non-native trees, fence removal and tree nursery work. Work Weeks run fro March om May & August November, every year. The cost of the we includes all eek food, accommodation and transport from Inverness. No p previous experience required.
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dolphin strandings, as the need arises. In your recreational time, there are rare seabird colonies, coastal wildflowers, castles, and Pictish ruins to investigate. Other organizations offering projects in the United Kingdom: AmeriSpan Study Abroad: www.amerispan.com Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com or www.gvi.co.uk Lattitude Global Volunteering Canada: www.lattitudecanada.org Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org
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The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now. ~African Proverb
Algeria
Organizations offering projects in Algeria: Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Angola
Organizations offering projects in Angola: Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Humana People to People: www.humana.org
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Benin
Center for Troubled Youth
Organization: Greenheart Travel Location: Cotonou Cost: $1,850 for 8 weeks Duration: 2 to 8 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@greenhearttravel.org Learn more: www.cci-exchange.com Special skills: An intermediate level of French is required. French lessons are available prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee. Details: Established in 1991, this center currently serves around 60 children from troubled homes, the streets, victims of trafficking or runaways. Help is needed in many different areas including tutoring, organizing recreational activities, leading skills workshops, helping with technical education classes, mentoring and counseling. Volunteers must be patient and open-minded to work with children who come from such difficult situations. The primary focus of the volunteer is to share themselves with the children through encouragement, support and lots of care. Program includes host family accommodations, two meals per day, medical insurance and 24 hour emergency contact.
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Africa
meals during the week and three on weekends with your host family are included in your stay.
Botswana
Research Assistant with Cheetah Conservation
Organization: Cheetah Conservation Botswana Location: Mokolodi Nature Reserve, Jwaneng Game Reserve, Ghanzi Farmlands. Cost: $2,500 per month for room and board
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administrative tasks as they arise. If you possess th necessary skills and he experience, have an interest in wildlife, can cope wi living and working ith in basic facilities, and wish to experience Africa by v volunteering in support of our cheetah conservation efforts in Botswana, then CCB would be delighted to hear from you. Other organizations offering projects in Bot tswana: African Conservation Experience: www.conservat tionafrica.net Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Students Travel and Exposure South Africa: www w.staesa.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org Worldwide Veterinary Service: www.wvs.org.uk Youth International: www.youthinternational.org g Worldwide Veterinary Service: www.wvs.org.uk
Burkina Faso
Help Build the First Eco-Village in Burk kina Faso
Organization: Reciproka Cost: $750 Duration: 1+ month Contact: infos@reciproka.org Learn more: www.reciproka.bravehost.com Details: Reciproka aims at helping West African c communities reach economic, social and cultural freedom through reci iprocity between people and culture. Along with the local community participants, you y will build the first eco-village in Burkina. Participan will also learn nts about native local plants, the art of Burkinabes ma ethnic groups' ain traditional building techniques and traditional beer making techniques. r One of the poorest countries in the world, landlock Burkina Faso has ked few natural resources and a weak industrial base. A About 90% of the population is engaged in subsistence agriculture, w which is vulnerable to periodic drought. Other organizations offering projects in Bur rkina Faso: African Rural Development Movement: www.arudmo.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
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Organizations offering projects in Burundi Doctors without Borders: www.doctorswithoutborders.org Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org
Burundi
Cameroon
School and Vocational Instruction
Organization: United Action for Children Location: Buea, South West Region of Cameroon Cost: $ 350 for 1 month, $550 for 2 months, $150 each additional month - includes lodging, feeding, transportation to and from the airport Duration: 1 to 12 months Age: 18-55 Contact: unitedactionforc@yahoo.com Learn more: www.unitedactionforchildren.org Special skills: Highly motivated volunteers who are ready to experience other cultures Details: United Action for Children is a child and youth centered organization operating in the South West Region, Cameroon. Its mission is to develop a caring and sustaining society for children and young people through innovative programmes. It is located in the English speaking part of Cameroon. This means English is the working language at UAC. The activities of UAC include the provision of elementary education to orphans and vulnerable children under which they run a nursery/primary school with an enrolment of 620 kids. UAC also runs Vocational Training programmes in woodwork, computer, electricity and painting. These are for rural-based youths with an enrolment of 125 trainees. In addition, their School on Wheels goes into local villages to help children who do not have access to basic education. This is an attempt to minimize failure and school dropout rates among rural kids.
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project, Cross River Gorillas and chimpanzees. By j joining this African project you will work on the frontline of conservatio while working with on local staff; using scientific survey methods. Hunting, trapping and the ering these fascinating illegal trade of bush meat in particular are endange animals. The aim of this project is to establish community wildlife n. reserves to protect these great apes from extinction Editors note: Several years ago I booked three of GVIs volunteer projects back to back When a family k. member became ill the organization issued me the refund n I was due promptly and with absolu utely no hassle. Sometimes the best way to judge a company is by how gs they handle themselves when thing go wrong. For this and for their drool-worthy catalog o volunteer programs of GVI gets top marks. meroon: Other organizations offering projects in Cam Afri-Link: www.afri-link.org Ecoteer: www.ecoteer.com Global Network for Good Governance: www.gngg g.org Goodness and Mercy Missions: www.gmmafrica.o org Green Cameroon: www.greencameroon.org RUDEC: www.rudec.org Students Travel and Exposure South Africa: www w.staesa.org Worldwide Veterinary Service: www.wvs.org.uk
Cape Verde
Sea Turtles Protection Project
Organization: Turtle Foundation Location: Boavista ons Cost: $15 per day for food and basic accommodatio Duration: 2+ weeks (preferably at least 3), nestin season is June ng through October Age: 18 Contact: via website Learn more: www.turtle-foundation.org lish or Portuguese (or Special skills: Should be able to converse in Engl Spanish) and preferably have basic knowledge of th other language. he Details: Possible duties for project volunteers incl lude: helping with day to day shopping or driving, helping with nocturnal beach patrols (beach
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Congo
Organizations offering projects in Congo: Hands at Work Africa: www.handsatwork.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
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24/7 are all included in this program. The Humanity Exchange can also set up French classes, help you plan onward travel, and coordinate with your school so you can obtain course credit for the work you do.
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Organization: The Humanity Exchange Location: Abidjan, The Ivory Coast (La Cote dIvoire) Cost: $1,450 for 1 month, $2,000 for 2 months, $2,550 for 3 months, $3050 for 4 months. Duration: 1 to 4 months. Humanity Exchange asks that you keep in mind that the longer you stay, the greater the impact for both you and the host community Age: 18 Contact: director@thehumanityexchange.org Learn more: www.thehumanityexchange.org Details: Volunteers are needed to work with children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, war, and internal displacement. In your role as a volunteer you will dress and feed children, tutor children in various academic subjects, assist staff in the nursery school and mentor children. Comprehensive pre-departure support, fundraising guide, food, lodging, airport pick-up and drop-off, and an Exchange Manager who is available 24/7 are all included in this program. The Humanity Exchange can also arrange French classes, help you plan onward travel and coordinate with your college or university so can obtain course credit. Organizations offering projects in Cote dIvoire: Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Djibouti
Organizations offering projects in Djibouti: International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org
Egypt
Teach English While Experiencing Egyptian Culture
Organization: GeoVisions Location: Cairo and Alexandria
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Equatorial Guinea
Primate and Sea Turtle Census
Organization: Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program Location: Gran Caldera de Luba Cost: $3,000 Duration: 3 weeks Age: 18 Contact: hearn@bioko.org Learn more: www.bioko.org Special skills: Typically, project volunteers are university students with an interest in primates and tropical biodiversity, but other enthusiastic adults with a variety of interests are also welcome. Details: Every January, Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program organizes a 3-week expedition to Bioko Island's remote, rarely visited, Gran Caldera de Luba. Here staff and volunteers work together to conduct a census of primates and sea turtles. Volunteers participate fully in the primate census, and are expected to maintain their own field notes plus daily logs/journals as an official record of activities. You will be trained in primate and nesting sea turtle census techniques. Volunteers also get experience in operating field equipment including GPS, satellite phones, generators, tape recorders and Zodiac boats.
Ethiopia
GVN Ethiopia Program: Knowledge, Kids & Beyond
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: A suburb of Asko, about 9 km outside of Addis Ababa Cost: $797 for 1 month Duration: 1 to 3 months Age: 18-59 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: Volunteers will be involved in tutoring children after school with a focus on conversational English, grammar, science, and mathematics. Additionally, volunteers with musical and computer skills are needed to instruct the children in these areas. Volunteers need to be able to develop new and creative projects, as well as techniques for instructing children with special needs. In addition, volunteers will work in staff development, finance and accounting, computer training, and/or grant writing. Once a week volunteers have the opportunity to serve at a
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The Gambia
Organizations offering projects in Gambia: Mondo Challenge (community-based projects): www.mondochallenge.co.uk People and Places (Winner Best Volunteering Organization category of Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award 2009): www.travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk Safari Guide: www.safari-guide.co.uk Student Travel and Exposure South Africa: www.staesa.org Tostna (unusually long-term social transformation work): www.tostan.org Worldwide Veterinary Service: www.wvs.org.uk
Ghana
Teach, Empower and Impact
Organization: The Bridge Foundation Location: Accra Cost: $8 per day Duration: 3+ months Age 16 Contact: planet35@hotmail.com, tbfghana@yahoo.com Learn more: www.thebridgefoundationghana.org Details: The Bridge Foundation (TBF) is a registered humanitarian non-profit organization in Ghana. Their primary objective is promoting human resource development, focusing on assisting disadvantaged and less privileged children/youth in deprived communities through educational, vocational skills training support and sports development, empowering them to assert abilities and capabilities required to improve their livelihood and to grow into responsible adulthood. Volunteers are
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needed to assist in the sharing of knowledge in math, English and physical education to children in Roman Ridge (Maamobi Junior High School) Accra Ghana. Volunteers are needed with knowledge in sports/physical training, computers and with knowledge of environmental management. Volunteers are also needed to assist in the promotion of the organization as well as sharing ideas and helping to acquire funds, equipment and partnerships with other organizations around the globe.
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(primary health clinics and outposts) and preventative health care such as focusing on the provision of clean drinking water. Community ownership and management is an important factor in our work, as well as being financially self-sustainable. Volunteers will receive patients, diagnose and treat them, train local staff and organize community outreach programmes to teach hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, family planning, AIDS awareness, etc. Volunteers at Akwakwaa can also visit and assist in the local orphanage down the road if they wish. Volunteers more interested in community outreach work should apply for MafiSeva. Meals are not included.
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Cost: $587 per month Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: info@vpwa.org Learn more: www.vpwa.org Special skills: Prior study in law, human rights and related activity Details: Volunteers are needed to help with human rights work at the grassroot level in Ghana. Volunteers will assist in investigating complaints of violations of fundamental rights and freedoms in the public and private sectors, injustice, abuse of power and unfair treatment of any person by a public officer in the exercise of his/her official duties by using mediation, negotiation, compromise and other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Participants also investigate instances of alleged or suspected corruption and misappropriation of public monies by officials and to take the appropriate steps resulting from such investigations and educate the public as to their fundamental human rights and freedoms.
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are also incorporated into the program and volunteers are encouraged to bring resources that can assist with teaching. You are effectively placed in rural and urban communities where you will teach solo and also assist the few available teachers.
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Childrens Home/Orphanage
Organization: uVolunteer Location: Several locations in and around Accra Cost: $1,300 for the first 4 weeks; $95 each additional week Duration: 4+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvolunteer.org Special skills: Basic English Details: Volunteers will be working in an orphanage, helping with the educational and emotional development of the orphans in Ghana. You will be a role model, teach English and assist staff members. Volunteers on this project provide support and guidance by helping the children with their homework, leading recreational activities, aiding in meal preparation, and assisting the staff members. This is a chance for you to create meaningful bonds and emotional ties with these children and help
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to change their lives for the better. The homes vary in size from 15-20 children up to 150 children depending on the location.
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to help these men and women in starting up and growing small sustainable businesses. Help to promote stimulus and sustainability for economic growth in the communities. Volunteers will assist in workshops advising on where to derive funds, how to search and apply for grants, how to promote and market their business, and how to work with basic accounting and budgets. You can help improve local economies by providing your skills to guide them through this process and generate ideas to improve and expand their start-up enterprises.
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Guinea
Organizations offering projects in Guinea: Batafon Arts (music & dance): www.batafonarts.co.uk Chimpanzee Conservation Centre: www.chimpanzeeconservation.wildlifedirect.org International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org Tostna (unusually long-term social transformation work): www.tostan.org
Kenya
Teach and Care for Orphans
Organization: International Humanity Foundation Location: Nakuru Cost: $50 per week, maximum of $600 Duration: 1+ month, no maximum Age: 18, or parental permission Contact: volunteering@ihfonline.org Learn more: www.ihfonline.org
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Details: Learn the realities of international poverty by serving at an orphanage and education center where you will live, learn, teach and play with the over 100 children who call it home. The centers tasks and needs vary widely, and you are certain to find a niche according to your skills. The center is also heavily involved in fighting malnourishment. Every month you will travel into arid East Pokot to deliver staple foods to, and purchase animals for, the neediest tribal people. As IHF is entirely volunteer-run, you will be asked to serve on various online task teams, such as advertising and photography, which will grant you a unique insight into how an international non-profit operates. Room and board at the center are included in the fee.
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Details: Take pride in being part of this socially responsible program by becoming a volunteer teacher at a local primary school in Kenya. By offering your time as a teacher you will learn more of the countries education system, as well as take part in extracurricular activities at the school. Share and experience classroom set up and learn more of the Swahili language. Part of the cost covers your food and accommodation with a family near the school for the whole duration of your volunteer experience. While with the project volunteers will visit historic sites, white sand beaches, Fort Jesus Museum and are able to take a safari at the end of the their stay. Have a real Africa experience by being a part of this Touch Africa vision and mission.
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family set up. You will also experience learning in Africa, social work and be exposed to many variants of life in the community in general. Be part of this noble cause - uplifting education in Kenya.
Teaching in Kenya
Organization: International Volunteer HQ Location: Urban and rural placements available all over Kenya Cost: $250 for 1 week to $2,220 for 6 months, includes food & accommodations Duration: 1 week to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@volunteerhq.org Learn more: www.volunteerhq.org Details: The introduction of free primary school education in Kenya left the Kenyan Government faced with a dilemma -a large number of students entitled to education and a comparative lack of teachers. Volunteers are placed in community schools, public schools or orphanage schools. Many of these schools worked are constantly understaffed and always in need of volunteers. You can work alone or alongside other teachers and volunteers. Typical subjects include English, math, science, social studies, art and physical education. Teaching at a rural school is an experience like no other. Giraffes often wander freely around school grounds and it is no big deal to have wild animals burrow holes through the school fields overnight. Volunteers are not required to be qualified or experienced teachers.
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visiting patients in homes, helping with medical care and food, conducting lessons to educate people on the dangers of HIV and how to prevent themselves from getting infected. This program is organized in collaboration with government institutions, NGOs, and communitybased organizations who work very closely with the communities and HIV/AIDS patients.
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Cost: $647 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Special skills: A background in HIV/AIDS and basic health care is required. Details: The goals of the HIV/AIDS program are to decrease the spread of HIV through raising awareness and education and to increase access to homecare and providing emotional support to those affected by HIV/AIDS within the community. Volunteers have the opportunity to work in a community HIV/AIDS organization to assist with homecare visits to HIV positive people, and to educate and counsel community and school groups as well as individuals. This role is suitable for a caring, motivated and self-directed person. Medical training is not necessary for all aspects of the program, but a background in HIV/AIDS and basic healthcare is required.
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Organization: Experiential Learning International Location: Nakuru Cost: $885+ Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Details: UNICEF estimates that approximately 2.3 million children in Kenya are orphans. These children turn to the street or an orphanage for refuge. ELI works with orphanages in Nakuru, Nairobi, and the base of Mt. Kenya as well as with day centers for street children in Nakuru. These organizations all place a large emphasis on the education and empowerment of the children. Volunteers at these organizations will assist with the daily tasks such as feeding the children, making sure everyone is clean and properly clothed, leading activities, helping with homework, and other tasks. You may also organize classes and educational activities. Volunteers have the chance to serve as a role model and mentor as well as to motivate the children to study.
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Safari Explorer
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Voi Cost: $4,000 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 4 days volunteering/14 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL), or building skills are desirable Details: This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a local community and help them deal with current issues. The warmth of these impoverished people will forever change you. Assist with painting or building a classroom, teach or partake in many other tasks. Get to know the people as you work alongside them and feel satisfaction and their gratitude. This amazing community experience is complemented by a visit to three of the worlds finest game reserves: the elephant-abundant Tsavo National East Park, the gorgeous Amboseli National Park on the
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doorstep of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the world renowne Maasai Mara ed National Reserve.
Captivating Kenya
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Watamu , Cost: $4,750 per person, based on sharing a room, excluding flights. Duration: 4 days volunteering/16 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com l Special skills: None required, but environmental conservation or building skills are desirable Details: Watamu, which means sweet people is a reference to the practice of using candy to lure locals in to become s slaves. It is now the site of an inspiring environmental conservation pro oject. Hands Up Holidays lures volunteers to assist with bird monito oring and tagging, tree planting and maintaining a footbridge to a bird lookout point. Along with orgeous east coast this rewarding project you also get to explore the go beaches of Kenya, and three of the best game reserv in the world: the ves elephant-abundant Tsavo East National Park, the g gorgeous Amboseli National Park on the doorstep of Mt. Kilimanjaro a the world and renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Elephants of Tsavo
Organization: Earthwatch Institute Location: Varied, rendezvous at Nairobi, Kenya e: Cost: $4,050 - $4,450+ Duration: 11 days Age 18 Contact: info@earthwatch.org Learn more: ww ww.earthwatch.org Details: Help researchers monitor the behavior an range of elephants nd in the breathtaking Kenyan savannah. Your team w spend four days in will Tsavo East National Park, two days in Rukinga Wil ldlife Sanctuary and one day along the boundaries, conducting elephant surveys from a t vehicle. When elephants are spotted, you'll work wi your team to ith
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Lesthotho
Organizations offering projects in Lesotho: Habitat for Humanity: www.habitat.org Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org UAN Exchange: www.unaexchange.org
Liberia
F-SHAM of Faith Girls Academy
Organization: Kids Worldwide nrovia Location: Soul Clinic Community, Paynesville City, Mon Cost: Under 1 month $300, 1 month $400, subsequent m months $100. Duration: 2+ weeks, 1 month+ preferred Age: 18
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Contact: george@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: www.kidsworldwide.org unteers are all Special skills: Qualified teachers and general volu welcome Details: F-SHAM of Faith Girls Academy is an all girls school located in unded in the year Monrovia, the capital of Liberia. The school was fou 2000 and was the idea of five women educators. Ab bout five hundred female students between the ages of 1 and 18 attend the school. F-SHAM d runs from nursery school to elementary, junior high and senior high h level. It runs both academic and vocational training programs. The g vocational training program allows other women (i non regular i.e. students) to enroll for special skill training. You wil teach small classes ll in either the nursery or upper classes. The civil war in Liberia has been r over for several years. This is a terrific chance to ex xplore a portion of the world not often traveled in the past and bring your voluntary spirit to a whole new land. Other organizations offering projects in Liberia: Children Better Way: www.childrenbetterway.org g Envision Change Network: www.ecnvolunteer.org g International Foundation for Education and Self-H Help: www.ifesh.org Rural Shelter Assistance Program: www.rsapliber ria.wordpress.com
Madagascar
Health Care Volunteering in Northern M Madagascar
Organization: Maventy Health International Location: Northern Madagascar: Anivorano Nord Diana Region, Diego dSuarez- Diana Region, Nosy Be Island Diana Reg gion Cost: None Duration: 2 weeks to 12 months A Age: 16- 75 Contact: info@maventy.org, drm@maventy.org Learn more: www.maventy.org Special skills: Interested applicant can be students, ts trainees and professionals in various fields which may include but are not limited to social environmental l, sciences, technology, engineering, m medicine, dentistry, public health, international busine and development. ess Details: MHI has projects focused on improving health d care delivery and infrastructure in Northern n
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management, community education and community development project. You will be working with local fishermen in a fishermens association to empower them to manage their resources, with women on alternative income generation projects and with children on marine and environmental education and alternative opportunities from the public schools to a kids club and sports association.
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Malawi
Provide Health Care and Education
Organization: uVolunteer Location: Migowi Cost: $650 for the first 2 weeks; add $75 for each additional week Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@uvolunteer.org Learn more: www.uvolunteer.org Special skills: Intermediate English Details: While volunteering at the Childrens Home in Malawi you will help nurture and enhance the lives of children of all ages, emotionally and academically. While volunteering you will be working with the Childrens home to provide assistance to not only children who have been orphaned, but whose parents are not capable of caring for them and the community as a whole. You will give advice to mothers in need of help with raising their newborns or children. You will also be organizing other educational and recreational activities for the children and the community. Other organizations offering projects in Malawi: African Conservation Trust: www.projectafrica.com Global Seekers Volunteer Vacations: www.globalseekersvv.com International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org Students Travel and Exposure South Africa: www.staesa.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org Volunteering Solutions: www.volunteeringsolutions.com Wildlife Action Group: www.wag-malawi.org
Mali
Health Programs Coordinator
Organization: The Mali Health Organizing Project Location: Sikoro, a slum on the outskirts of Bamako Cost: None to volunteer. Most volunteers spend about $10 a day (total) on food, transport and housing. Duration: 1 year Age: 20 Contact: information@malihealth.org Learn more: www.malihealth.org
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group, or set of friends--any group that wants a new experience and a chance to make friends by helping out-- Tandana Foundation can coordinate a service project and a unique learning experience for you. Other organizations offering projects in Mali: African Rural Development Movement: www.arudmo.org Halley Movement (child welfare): www.halleymovement.org Students Travel and Exposure South Africa: www.staesa.org
Mauritius
Mauritian Dolphin Volunteer Experience
Organization: VOLUNTOURS Location: Black River, near Tamarin Bay on the tropical isle of Mauritius Cost: from $2, 500 Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@voluntours.co.za Learn more: www.voluntours.co.za Details: Ever wanted to volunteer with dolphins, but wanted to do more than just swim with them? Field research with this nongovernmental organization is combined with office-based analysis of fin profiles, notch characteristics and the efficient placing of animals within catalogues. This provides valuable information on the animals migration patterns and social groups and habits. Support scientific research, conservation and awareness programmes and generate funds for ongoing research ensuring continuity. Ongoing educational work coupled with scientific study of the dolphin populations and coral reef work is the backbone of this volunteer project. Their work extended from the need to sensitize the local dolphin watching operators to the two species of dolphin, which are the focus of their industry, and the importance of codes of behavior when encountering them. Other organizations offering projects in Mauritius: African Conservation Experience: www.conservationafrica.net Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org
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Morocco
Good Community Good Work
Organization: Elbassma Association Location: Errachidia, Morocco Cost: $230 Duration: 2 to 3 weeks Age: 18-40 Email: info@elbassma.org Learn more: www.elbassm ma.org Details: The Elbassma Association for social and volunta work helps ary children who live in the poorest areas. These are the youth who cant h travel or enjoy the kids camps in the region because of po overty. These kids need activities in summer to help them gain useful sk kills and knowledge and to spend holidays as a normal child, creati memories ing and having some fun. If you are outgoing, open, friendly a interested and in learning about the Moroccan culture and people, the El lbassma Association needs your help to complete this work. With a open mind an and heart volunteers will find whatever they are looking fo while or opening new worlds to the lives of impoverished children. A reasonable knowledge of English is needed.
Taste of Morocco
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Talamenzou Cost: $1,950 per person, based on sharing a room Duration: 3 days volunteering/9 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Special skills: None required, but teaching English as a second language (ESL) or building skills are desirable Details: You can help the Berber people in the non-tourist village of Talamenzou. Take the opportunity to interact with the children, who will be thrilled to have you helping them develop their school building, where three rooms are under construction: a library, a computer room and a reading room. The itinerary for the rest of this trip is seasonal. In the spr ring, summer, autumn, hike the stunning Atlas Mountains and enjoy ma agnificent views. In the winter, explore old Berber towns and Kasbahs then travel along n
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the life giving Dades River. All year round you have time at the end of your adventure to relax on the beautiful Essaouira beaches and reflect on a magnificent trip.
Mozambique
Rensida-Rede Nacional de Organizacoes de Pessoas vivendo com HIV
Organization: Inter-Cultural Youth Exchange Location: Varies Cost: Cost: $6,300 for 6 months or $7,500 for 12 months Duration: 6 or 12 months Age: 18-30
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Details: Work with a rural Mozambique fishing co ommunity in a number of key local projects. Visit preschool classes in the m morning to help local teachers educate young children in creative ways. T Then work with secondary schools and community groups to condu HIV/AIDS uct education and awareness workshops. These worksh hops are crucial in fighting the spread of the disease. You will also part ticipate in monthly community testing days with a medical group. Volu unteers working on these projects may also be required to help with occ casional needs at the local orphanages and building projects. In a small c community the need for volunteers provides a diverse and involved com mmunity experience.
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Namibia
Desert Elephant / Human Cohabitation Project
Organization: Elephant Human Relationship Aid Location: Brandberg in the ephemeral Ugab River Park Cost: $800 per 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 3 months Age: 18 Contact: elephant@iway.na Learn more: www.desertelephant.org Details: This project is part of a long-term initiative to find solutions to the ever growing problem of facilitating the peaceful cohabitation between subsistence farmers and desert adapted elephants. Working from mobile base camps in the vicinity of the Brandberg in the ephemeral Ugab River, the volunteer teams immerse themselves in pioneer conservation work. This project is not for those interested in bottle feeding cuddly baby elephants. This is about real, spearhead conservation work in a harsh desert environment where small bands of secretive, desert-adapted elephants roam vast wilderness areas. This is a place where subsistence farmers eke out an existence and need all the help they can get in their confrontations with the elephants competing for precious water resources.
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family. Some volunteers live and eat at mission stations, which, in remote areas, often provide the only room and board options.
Africa
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Nigeria
Mental Health Matters
Organization: Amaudo UK Location: Southeastern Nigeria Cost: Varies by length of stay Duration: Varies, often long-term Contact: amaudouk@btconnect.com Learn more: www.amaudouk.org
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Details: Amaudo has a strong need for mental health nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and financial administrators. Volunteer support staff may also be needed. Please check with Amaudo UK for their needs at any given time.
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Rwanda
Rwanda Teaching Year
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Varies Cost: $5,990 Duration: 1 year (Departure in late December) Age: 18-74 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English speaker, bachelors degree Details: Volunteers will be primarily teaching math and science subjects in high schools, though there will be opportunities to teach English and ICT as well. A few primary school placements may be possible as well. Volunteers are also expected to join and lead extracurricular activities such as HIV/AIDS clubs, sports teams, library committees, etc. Housing accommodations may vary depending on the placement site. The most common arrangement is school-provided housing or a furnished apartment. Volunteers will have their own room, although they might share common rooms with other teachers or staff. Buildings typically have cement walls and electricity, but not necessarily running water; volunteers may need to use the community water well. Most schools have been built since the genocide and are in quite good condition. Many even have an Internet connection. Cell phones work and have good reception throughout the country.
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Africa
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Special skills: Basic French is required for the literacy program Location: The program is located in the Kigali province, primarily in the capital of Kigali (Nyarugenge), Kicukiro and Gasabo districts. Cost: $697 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 3 months Age: 18-65 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: The grade for schools in Rwanda is unsatisfactory. Many of them lack books, scholastic and teaching materials and school equipment. In fact, war and genocide caused heavy losses at the level of human and material resources as well as the decrease of the social capital. Volunteers will work alongside local primary teachers to improve the level of English, math, health, hygiene and science skills amongst students. Volunteers will also be involved in improving teachers level of English. You are not required to have a teaching qualification, but experience in subject areas like English, math, health, hygiene and science and French would be advantageous.
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Senegal
Volunteer and Cultural Homestay Programs
Organization: Association Sngalaise des Volontaires Unis Location: Dakar, Thies, Louga, Fatick, Ziguinchor Cost: $725 for 4 week volunteering/$925 for 4 week cultural homestay Duration: 4+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: senevolu@hotmail.com Learn more: www.senevolu.org Details: The association SENEVOLU is dedicated to promoting community tourism by welcoming volunteers and travelers to discover the cultural differences a West African country like Senegal has to offer, while being part of the community. Therefore, the organization offers both a cultural and volunteer homestay program. Thanks to its programs, local trips and African Workshops SENEVOLU allows travelers to be immersed in the Senegalese culture with host families and colleagues. In the meantime the program gives an opportunity for Senegalese to benefit from community tourism.
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Africa
Other organizations offering projects in Senegal: International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org Mondo Challenge: www.mondochallenge.co.uk Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Senecorps: www.senecorps.org Volunteering Solutions: www.volunteeringsolutions.com
Seychelles
Marine Conservation Volunteer Program
Organization: Global Visions International Location: Cap Ternay Marine National Park Cost: $3,990 for 5 weeks Duration: 5 to 10 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@gviusa.com Learn more: www.gviusa.com Details: Location! Location! Location! This GVI volunteer journeys base is located within the inner granitic islands of the Seychelles. Learn how to identify fish and coral in the Indian Ocean; visiting and diving amongst deserted tropical islands. Join critical conservation efforts on this marine expedition and be an active member of GVIs marine research team in the Indian Ocean. Other organizations offering projects in the Seychelles: Nature Seychelles: www.natureseychelles.org Responsible Travel: www.responsibletravel.com
Sierra Leone
Children in Christ Services School &/or Clinic Work
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Tankatopa Makama Safronko Chiefdom in the Port-Loko Distract Cost: Under 1 month $400, 1+ month $450, subsequent months $150 Duration: 2+ weeks, 1+ month preferred Age: 18 Contact: cics@kidsworldwide.org
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South Africa
Childrens Programs in South Africa
Organization: Experiential Learning International Location: Cape Town Cost: $695 Duration: 16+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Details: Orphanage volunteers and teachers aides coordinate group activities, assist students with homework, teach English classes, mentor and provide some much needed emotional support. The organizations ELI has partnered with specifically support abandoned, abused, terminaly ill and refugee children from Rwanda, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These positions are available to longterm volunteers (minimum commitment is four months) and are primarily located in townships outside of the city. It is strongly recommended that volunteers in this program do not rely on public transit.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die HIV/AIDS and TB Medical Project
Organization: Edge of Africa Location: The coastal town of Knysna in the Beautiful Garden Route Cost: $890 Duration: 2 to 4 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@edgeofafrica.com Learn more: www.edgeofafrica.com Special skills: Edge of Africa is looking for dedicated, hard working, mature and motivated volunteers that care! Volunteers should be of good health and physical fitness. Specific experience is not necessary, however medical students or professionals will benefit from the project. Professional medical and nursing staff will need to be registered with the South African government regulatory bodies in order to perform invasive procedures and tasks. Details: Learn about the effects of HIV/AIDS in Africa, create awareness in rural communities, assist in static and mobile clinics and make a real difference to the HIV/AIDS and TB epidemic in the area. Volunteer duties include educating patients, developing income generated projects and the business plans thereof, administrative tasks, simple health tasks such as measuring patients weight, checking adherence to therapy, and supporting pregnant mothers and their children. Tasks will vary, but be assured that you will experience something life changing as you work alongside this team of hard working and very dedicated team of medical professionals. Food, accommodation and project related transport is included.
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Volunteer Op pportunities
can be viewed from the farm and youll awake to th trumpeting heir serenade each morning.
Africa
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opportunity to initiate new sports in the area. Whatever skills or background you have please let us know! Food, accommodation and project related transport is included.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die South Africa Youth Program
Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: The main town of Thohoyandou and its surrounding villages: Manamani, Dzwerani, Shayandima and Itsane. The Soweto project is located in the Southwest area of Johannesburg in a suburb called Orlando West. Cost: $1,077 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: Youth during the apartheid era in South Africa played a significant role in bringing about democracy. Today, South Africa's national legislation and policies in its post-apartheid period directs its focus specifically at youth development realizing that previously very little attention focused on matters relating to youth. Volunteers will contribute their valuable time as teaching assistants and tutors in primary and secondary schools, and childcare workers in daycare centers in Venda and in primary schools in Soweto, South Africa. You will have the opportunity to be directly involved in the motivation and development of young people's lives and ultimately helping to bridge gaps and influence change in the 'New South Africa'.
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Organization: Global Volunteer Network Location: The main town of Thohoyandou and its surrounding villages: Manamani, Dzwerani, Shayandima, and Itsane. The Soweto project is located in the Southwest area of Johannesburg in a suburb called Orlando West. Cost: $1,077 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: info@volunteer.org.nz Learn more: www.volunteer.org.nz Details: Volunteers may work in settings such as day care centers or "places of safety" in the community. The town's Children's Home and certain foster home situations are referred to locally as "places of safety". As a volunteer, you can help by working with children ages 2-6, helping with general caretaking like handing out porridge and brushing teeth, teaching English, reading, writing and pronunciation. Simple math and counting, body hygiene, crafts and educational games for younger children may be available as well. Volunteers will be able to use this time to display their mentoring experience, and motivate the students toward a positive future.
Housing Initiative
Organization: Willing Workers in South Africa (WWISA) Location: The Crags/Kurland Village Garden Route of South Africa Cost: $1,050 for two weeks group discounts available Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: volunteers@wwisa.co.za Learn more: www.wwisa.co.za Special skills: Motivation and enthusiasm Details: There are over 400 families waiting to be allocated government housing within Kurland and this number continues to grow with the growth in population. There are currently plans to provide just 250 houses. While there is an obvious need to build more houses, there is also the need to renovate existing houses that were some of the first to be built in the village, and as such, do not qualify the residents for the new larger, better equipped houses. Houses need to be waterproofed, repaired and made safe. Most residents are not able to afford these necessary upgrades. The only way these projects can work is with more volunteers! You will not be required to carry out any major building works yourself, but with your participation a job is created and you assist the local tradesman with all renovations. This is a hands-on project that allows the volunteer to work side-by-side with people in the village.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Zero to Hero Sports Adventure & Volunteerin ng
Organization: Edge of Africa Garden Route Location: The coastal town of Knysna on the beautiful G Cost: $1,450 Duration: 2 to 4 weeks Age: 18 dgeofafrica.com Contact: info@edgeofafrica.com Learn more: www.ed Details: Experience a fantastic mix of sports volunteerin sports ng, lessons & excursions. You will have the opportunity to tea the sports ach you enjoy in the local community and learn or practice sports you are t interested in. They say you should try something different every day here is your chance! You will have the opportunity to take lessons in kite e surfing, power boating and surfing. Other sports you can e enjoy on the project include canoeing, mountain biking and golf. In between the r, adrenalin of these sports, you will be assisting with soccer cricket and fitness clinics in the local community! Reach your dreams and help the s kids of the Knysna community do the same! Food, accomm modation and project related transport is included.
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Africa
Organization: ORCA Foundation Location: Garden Route jewel seaside village of Plettenberg Bay Cost: $500 per week includes all project costs, full board & accommodations Duration: 2 to 12 weeks Age: 18 Contact: bookings@orcafoundation.com Learn more: www.orcafoundation.com Special skills: Passion for marine wildlife; willingness to help less fortunate children; an open mind Details: Volunteers will participate in creating a partnership with the local community; developing a conservation model in Plettenberg Bay to sustain marine and costal resources through improved management and will work in research and education programs. This includes fish tagging and counts on the reef, whale and dolphin identification, turtle rehabilitation, gathering water samples in the estuary, alien tree removal, tree planting and childrens education in outdoor classroom on the ocean, beach and tidal rocks. Volunteers leave with an understanding of what it takes to preserve fragile coastlines and will have the knowledge needed to improve the lives of children and help the environment where they live.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Abused Animal and Veterinary Assist Project
Organization: African Impact Location: Southern Peninsula of Cape Town, South Africa Cost: $2,260 for 4 weeks Duration: 2 to 8 weeks or more Age: 17 Contact: info@africanimpact.com Learn more: www.africanimpact.com Special skills: No special skills required, just a love for animals! Details: Be part of a rescue organization whose main focus is to assist distressed pets from the surrounding townships and provide care for them. Get involved with hands on tasks such as feeding, exercising and caring for animals in need, work alongside vets who will train you in veterinary practice and educate people from the disadvantaged communities on animal care whilst experiencing the local culture. Volunteers will have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of Cape Town's neglected animals by being part of this rescue shelter whose core aim is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abandoned, abused and neglected dogs and cats. On an average day the shelter cares for around 170 dogs and puppies and 130 cats and kittens!
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Africa
Cost: $2,690 for 4 weeks Duration: 4 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@africanimpact.com Learn more: www.africanimpact.com Special skills: Enthusiasm for photography and conservation Details: Photography buffs, just say, Wow! St. Lucia is situated within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a beautiful area declared as South Africas first Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Within this impressive setting volunteers are offered the opportunity to photograph the phenomenal wildlife in the area and to help raise awareness in the local community about the importance of conservation. After being given an intensive photography course by a professional wildlife photographer, volunteers will begin to take photographs of local flora and fauna, which will be added to a picture database; the Green Vision Foundation and African Impact aim to create a complete ecological database for the area. Volunteers will also visit local schools giving classes and workshops about the reason for, and methods of conservation and assist at conservation centers.
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Africa
Organization: VOLUNTOURS Location: Ndlalane, Klipgat, 40 km northwest of Pretoria, North West Province, South Africa Cost: $2, 150+ for 4 weeks Duration: 1 to 12 weeks Age: 18, 16 with parental consent, individuals, families and groups welcome Contact: info@voluntours.co.za Learn more: www.voluntours.co.za Special skills: Screening and matching of skills required Details: Multiple award winning projects in a semi-rural community. Stay in a local home or in traditional Ndebele tribal community that was forcibly moved under the Apartheid government in 1952. It may take a while to come to terms with much of the hardships and realities of rural life in South Africa, however, the riches you gather are well worth it. Provide education support and training at this preschool owned and run by a local community member. Our volunteers will contribute to the mentoring and upskilling of the staff; improving the infrastructure, stimulating the children, and working with the teachers and parents to provide first rate support and advice regarding their health and school readiness.
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the value of solar cooking. Help roll out this environmental project to the greater community.
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Africa
Organization: Cross-Cultural Solutions Location: Cape Town Cost: 3 week programs start from $3,142 Duration: 3 to 12 weeks Age: 18 or over 8 welcome with adult supervision. Contact: info@crossculturalsolutions.org Learn more: www.crossculturalsolutions.org Special skills: No special skills required. Proficient knowledge of the English language preferred. Details: Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa, and the influences from the many different cultures of the nation can be seen throughout the city. However, the effects of apartheid persist as many communities remain divided. Volunteers share their professional skills and experience and can work with womens groups in Cape Town. Many women are affected by domestic violence, and others are looking for income-generating opportunities to help provide for their families. Volunteers work in local shelters and organizations that provide a safe and supportive place for the women. Volunteers offer companionship, help with household duties, and provide child care so that the women can focus on gaining new life skills and training. All meals and accommodations are provided.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die African Wildlife Conservation for Teens
Organization: Academic Treks Location: Enkosini Wildlife Sanctuary and beyond Cost: $5,380 y Duration: 40+ hours of volunteerism as part of a 22-day wildlife conservation program Age: Teens finishing grades 10-12 2 Contact: info@academictreks.com; 919-256-8200 or 88 88-833-1908 Learn more: www.academictreks.com nd Details: Students on this Academic Trek project study an assist with efforts to conserve, protect and increase African wildlife p populations that are threatened by habitat destruction, development, poac ching and hunting. Living at the Enkosini Wildlife Sanctuary, you w work and learn alongside conservationists, researchers and veterinarians as they strive endangered to rescue, rehabilitate and provide sanctuary for Africas e creatures including giraffes, zebras, rhinos and elephants. Explore most renowned Kruger National Park, one of Africas oldest, largest and m national parks in search of impalas, lions, buffaloes and h hippos. Teach local schoolchildren about the importance of wildlife cons servation. Students also take an excursion to navigate o inflatable kayaks through the dra amatic Blyde River Canyon, the site where the prehistoric e Gondwanaland super-continent tore apart, t creating Africa, Asia and one of Africa's natural wonders.
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nutrition in a township; 3) Help on an environmental conservation project. Regardless of the project you choose, you will be touched by the people you meet. In addition to your meaningful volunteer project, you also explore the highlights of Cape Town staying in luxury boutique accommodations, taste the full bodied wines of Stellenbosch and seek out the Big 5 animals in a luxury game reserve. Other organizations offering projects in South Africa: GeoVisions: www.geovisions.org Global Visions International: www.gviusa.com Global White Lion Protection Trust: www.whitelions.org i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com International Foundation for Education and Self-Help: www.ifesh.org Lajuma Research Centre (biological/archeological research) www.lajuma.com Nkombi Volunteers on Mankwe Wildlife Reserve: www.mankwewildlifereserve.net People and Places (Winner Best Volunteering Organization category of Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award 2009): www.travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk Sanccob (penguin rescue): www.sanccob.co.za Worldwide Veterinary Service: www.wvs.org.uk
Sudan
Volunteer Teachers of English Language
Organization: Sudan Volunteer Programme Location: Universities in Khartoum and smaller northern towns Cost: $100 towards insurance Duration: 7+ months, start dates from September or early January Age: 22 Contact: david@svp-uk.com Learn more: www.svp-uk.com Special skills: Graduates who are native English speakers, nationality is not a problem. TEFL certificate and knowledge of Arabic are not required. Details: SVP works with undergraduates and graduates who are native English speakers and who wish to teach English in Sudan. Teaching tends to be informal in style, with only 4-5 hours of contact a day. Volunteers can plan their own teaching lessons, such as arranging games, dramas, competitions and tests for assessing skills learned by the
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Tanzania
Kahama Donkey Welfare Project
Organization: Tanzania Animals Protection Organizatio -TAPO on Location: Kahama District, Shinyanga Region Western T Tanzania Cost: $100 Duration: 1 week to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: yohanakashililah@yahoo.com Learn more: www.tanzania-animals-protection-org.blogspot.com Details: TAPO helps ease the suffering of donkeys at Kah hama by educating the owners and students i throughout in the whole district. TAPO is also a res scue and treats abandoned and street animals. TAPO cannot O provide volunteers with meal or acco ommodations, but there are places to stay nearby an the work is nd highly rewarding and enjoyable.
La No Che Projects
Organization: La No Che Orphans and Youth Camp Tru ust Location: Kibaha on the coastal region of Tanzania, approximately 50km from Dar es Salaam s Cost: $250 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 weeks to 3 months Age: Open Contact: lanochecamp@yahoo.com, camplanoche@hotm mail.com
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Special skills: No experience is required, but you must be willing to work hard and love children and have fun with them. The ability to work in construction and in building maintenance is also very useful. Details: La No Ches needs include help with social work, and educating the children: teaching games, counseling, cooking, sharing their activities and showing love to them. Helping with the orphanage vegetable garden and orchard adds to the diversity. If you prefer construction email them about current projects. They frequently work with local villagers on various hand-on opportunities such as wells and building construction, even a chicken coop.
Watoto wa Africa
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Mwanza, the 2nd largest town in Tanzania on Lake Victoria Cost: $300 per month Duration: 2+ weeks, 1 month+ preferred Age: 18, or kids over 10 welcome with parent Contact: watoto@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: www.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: A love of children and a desire to change peoples lives. They ask volunteers to come ready for a challenge and to be willing to put in some hard work. Details: Watoto Wa Africa Organization (meaning Children of Africa) was founded in the year 2000. The primary focus of Watoto wa Africa is caring for orphaned and other vulnerable children. The orphanage is currently home to 45 orphans and street children. Volunteers can teach important skills, such as fine and gross motor skills, sports, computers, music and singing. The children are very eager to learn. The main role of the volunteers will be to teach supplementary English and math lessons to the children at the Buswelu orphanage. They also ask volunteers to try to organize a fund raiser before you come, to support both the orphanage and your expenses.
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Teaching in Tanzania
Organization: International Volunteer HQ rusha Location: Urban and rural placements in and around Ar Cost: $250 for 1 week to $2,420 for 6 months, includes fo and ood accommodations Duration: 1 week to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@volunteerhq.org
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Learn more: www.volunteerhq.org Details: Volunteers are placed in exciting community schools, public schools or orphanage schools. Many of the schools we work with are constantly understaffed and are always in need of new volunteers. In this program, volunteers can work by themselves or alongside other teachers and volunteers. Typical subjects taught include English, math, science, social studies, art and physical education. School in Tanzania runs for three terms a year (Term One runs January to April, Term Two runs May to August, Term Three runs September to November).There are short breaks between terms during which time volunteers can take a break, travel, engage in tourist activities such as a safari, take tutorials for senior students or participate in another placement. Volunteers do not need to be a qualified or experienced teacher.
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cultural orientation and technical training in HIV/A AIDS and sustainable agriculture followed by two or more weeks of traini local community ing groups in each subject. These community trainings often take place in s rural areas rarely accessed by tourists or volunteers Program s. participants spend part of the first week of their pro ogram living in a comfortable local hostel and the remaining time liv ving with a local Tanzanian host family or camping during the rural trainings. Your host , family will generously introduce you to the culture, traditions and cuisine of Tanzania. A day safari to a local game res serve is also included.
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Togo
Community Building, Education and Helath
Organization: Association Togolaise des Volontaires au Travail, Location: Varies Cost: None Duration: 1 to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: astovoct@yahoo.com Learn more: www.astovot.org Special skills: Some French and English Details: Volunteers will work in a variety of programs. Among these are: community mobilisation against STDs/AIDS, reforestation, school sessions, assisting mentally handicapped and deaf/mute children, construction, renovation of schools buildings, education and teaching. Other organizations offering projects in Togo: A Pas de Loup: www.apasdeloup.org Association Togolaise des Volontaires au Travail: www.astovot.org African Rural Development Movement: www.arudmo.org Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects: www.cadip.org Global Crossroads: www.globalcrossroad.com Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org
Tunisia
Organizations offering projects in Togo: Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Volunteers for Peace: www.vfp.org
Uganda
Training Veterinary Nurses in Kamapala
Organization: Uganda Society for the Protection and Care of Animals Location: Kampala Cost: None. You provide your own food & accommodations
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Africa
Organization: Uganda Rural Fund (URF) Location: Kyetume Village, Masaka, Uganda Cost: $300 a month with host family, accommodation + meals Duration: 1+ months Age: 18, under 18 with a parent Contact: jmlugemwa@ugandaruralfund.org Learn more: www.ugandaruralfund.org Special skills: Passion for education of orphans Details: Do you love playing with kids? Are you passionate about the plight of kids, about their education? This is the place youve been looking for. Combine a host family and orphanage live-in experience with a rural setting. You will assist kids with laundry, cleaning, tutoring, games, meals, etc at the orphanage. Your work also involves visiting child-headed family households (orphans living by themselves without an adult) and assessing their needs and finding sponsors. Volunteers help these families with gardening, house construction or repair and tutoring. You may also assist at other projects such as: youth and women empowerment, teaching high school, village banking, crafts, agriculture, AIDS awareness, nonprofit administration, etc to get a feel for community development at the grassroots level.
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library and computer center. You will help prepare student sponsorship profiles, assist teachers by typing exams, teach computer classes, construction, music, crafts, sports programs and any needed work. You may also work on other projects like womens empowerment, orphanage assistance, village banking, and more.
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Contact: volunteers@thefyo.org Learn more: www.thefyo.org Details: Volunteers are needed in many aspects of working with local builders on the construction of new school toilets which are in critical condition. The current bathroom is constructed with wood and all the wood is spoiled putting users at risk. Volunteers fee pay depending on duration of stay. The program fee that is paid includes a donation to the project, airport pick up, on-going support and supervision and emergency medical insurance. You will stay with a host family or special arrangements can be made at an extra cost.
Microfinance in Busia
Organization: East Africa Metamorphosis Project Location: Busia Cost: $15-$30 a day depending on duration of trip Duration: 1 week to 6 months Age: 18 (or accompanied by an adult) Contact: rick@eastafricametaproject.org Learn more: www.eastafricametaproject.org Details: Make a difference and leave a changed person! Microcredit is quickly gaining momentum as an effective way to empower those trapped in extreme poverty. EAMP has recently launched a microcredit program in Uganda and they would love volunteers to come join them. You may help facilitate weekly meetings with the current participants, work with staff to interview new participants to the program, conduct interviews with the new applicants to gather data on their current economic situation or even interview participants in the program to assess hindrances to their business. Your work aides EAMP in assessing new ways to solve some of the issues facing those in extreme poverty.
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St Paul KAASO
Organization: Kids Worldwide Location: Rakai District, 5 hours south of Kampala, near Tanzanian border Cost: Under 3 weeks $250, 1st month $350, 2nd month $150, 3rd month $100, subsequent months $80. Duration: 2+ weeks, 1+ month preferred Age: 18, children accompanied by a parent are also welcome Contact: kaaso@kidsworldwide.org Learn more: www.kidsworldwide.org Special skills: Community development, teaching (in English), development techniques, social work and counseling, administrative work, nutrition, public health education, grant writing and research, IT and library skills to help manage the computer centre and community library.
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Africa
Details: St. Paul KAASO (Kabira Adult Attention & School of Orphans) Project was first intended for orphans and adults who never had the opportunity to attend school or those who partially attended. Their current community projects include: The womens empowerment group, adult literacy groups (for adults between the age of 18-60 years), and the maize mill project which currently sees that 154 farmers are supplied with seeds, fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides to grow their own crops of maize and cassava. The piggery project is a breeding program for pigs to be supplied and sold to members of the above groups to promote community income and teach general business skills. Micro loans, the community library and computer lab, provide guidance and counseling to restore hope.
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Africa
certificate; recommendation letter, practical and hands on HIV/AIDS experience, cultural orientation and induction. Costs cover, local meals (breakfast, lunch and supper), airport pick and drop, accommodation in a host family.
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Orphanages in Uganda
Organization: Experiential Learning International Location: Iganga Cost: $885 Duration: 2+ weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@eliabroad.org Learn more: www.eliabroad.org Details: According to the World Bank over 1 million orphans are growing up in Uganda. Orphans living with their extended families often face a bleak future of hard work and little opportunity for education. ELI works with several organizations aimed at assisting and empowering these children through education programs, skills training and other activities. Volunteers are welcome to assist with teaching, and are encouraged to lead other activities such as sports and arts in order to enrich the lives of the children. The orphanages provide food, shelter and education to hundreds of children from infants up to teenagers. They operate on very modest budgets, and at times struggle to provide enough food for the children.
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Africa
Organization: Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children Location: Bumwalukani Cost: $1,266 for 2 weeks Duration: 2 to 4 weeks, longer stays are possible Age: 18 Contact: mission@fimrc.org Learn more: www.fimrc.org Special skills: This program is specially focused for undergraduates, medical students, and public health students. Details: Help provide direct healthcare to a community of approximately 25,000 individuals in rural Uganda, all of whom live on $200 a year or less. The clinic and adjoining primary school are situated on a mountainside about 30 miles from the city of Mbale. Volunteers play a crucial role in streamlining the clinics operations by managing patient intake and providing basic assistance to the clinics medical staff. Preventative health education initiatives are a major part of every mission; volunteers will become engaged in the effort to teach basic health maintenance to children and adults in the community.
Zambia
Malalo (Bridge) Sports Project
Organization: Youth Press and Development Organization Location: Lubengele, Chililabombwe Cost: Budget $40 per day accommodation,$8 for food and $3 for transport Duration: 4 weeks from mid January to mid February Age: 25 Contact: kebby.shampongo@gmail.com, administrator@fypdo.org Learn more: www.fypdo.org Special skills: Sports education (soccer)
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Africa
Learn more: www.africanimpact.com Special skills: Enthusiasm for sports Details: Sports volunteers spend their time doing physical education and sports training at local schools (which is sorely neglected due to the lack of trained teachers), as well as working with sports teams in the Livingstone community. Sports are an essential and effective tool to teach about various subjects such as HIV, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. The sports project consists of three main areas of work: physical education within schools, training the team and HIV education in sport. As a sports volunteer you will also be involved with community projects in Livingstone which include the following: family support, building, painting, refurbishing, home based care, farming, adult literacy, as well as HIV Education - all to support, unite and build up the local community as a whole.
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Zimbabwe
Donkey Care, Health and Community Education
Organization: Donkey Protection Trust Location: Travels to various rural areas Cost: None Duration: 1+ month Age: 18 Contact: donkey@zol.co.zw Learn more: www.spana.org/countries/zimbabwe.html Details: The Donkey Protection Trust is the only organization in Zimbabwe serving the needs of over a half a million donkeys. In order to fulfill that need they are mostly a mobile service spending usually a week or more at a time in our rural areas concentrating on education and primary health care. Their objectives are to prevent the suffering and abuse of these hardworking animals. The work is simple, but at times arduous. Volunteers will be travelling as part of the team wherever required and organizing and assisting in clinics and primary health care activities.
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Africa
Organization: Painted Dog Conservation Location: Dete (arrive at Victoria Falls) ransport to/from the Cost: $1,500 (budget $450 extra for park fees & tr project site) Duration: 3 weeks Age: 18 ww.painteddog.org Contact: info@painteddog.org Learn more: ww Details: Painted Dog Conservations mission is to protect and increase the range and numbers of painted dogs through hands on conservation, nal education, community involvement and internation support. Project volunteers will learn about and assist with radio tel lemetry, daily tracking of packs in and around Hwange National Park, mai intenance work and feeding and enrichment programmes. Flexibility an initiative are vital. nd Entering data/photographs acquired. Assist at the r rehabilitation facility as work can and does arise on a daily basis.
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Victoria Falls Lion Rehabilitation and Conservation
Organization: African Impact Location: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Cost: $3,200 for 4 weeks Duration: 2 to 8 weeks Age: 18 Contact: info@africanimpact.com Learn more: www.africanimpact.com, www.lionalert.org Special skills: A passion for wildlife and conservation is important Details: At the Victoria Falls Lion Rehabilitation & Conservation Project volunteers will have the unique opportunity to walk and work with lions, exposing the cubs to the African bush as they hone their natural skills. You will also be involved in research of lion behavior and work with the staff on what is said to be the worlds only programme for their release into the wild. You assist with conservation tasks such as clearing of alien invader plant species in the Victoria Falls National Park, and conservation education at a local primary school is also needed. There are opportunities aplenty to enjoy the wide range of adventure activities available around the Falls, which is one of Africas adrenaline capitals.
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Volunteer Opportunities
HIV/Aids Zimbabwe: www.hivaidszimbabwe.com Pathfinders: www.pathfindersafrica.com/zimbabwe Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org
Africa
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We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love... and then we return home. ~ Australian Aborigines Proverb
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Australia
Wild Tasmania Devil Management
Organization: Save the Tasmanian Devil Location: Tasmania Cost: None Duration: 2 weeks Age: 18 Contact: DevilDisease.Enquiries@dpipwe.tas.gov.au Learn more: www.tassiedevil.com.au Special skills: None, however first aid and 4WD experie ence area always welcome. Details: Devilish volunteers are involved in field monitor ring and wild management of Tasmanian devils, helping with trapping a various sites at across Tasmania. A typical survey lasts 11 - 12 days. While team leaders e trap and release Tasmanian devils, volunteers assist with scrubbing and cleaning traps and scribing. Not so glamorous? Well, the d days can be long, the weather unpredictable and mobile phone covera will be age limited or non-existent. You will, however, four-wheel-dri into ive breathtakingly beautiful places that very few people get to see and help o an amazing endangered animal that is full of personality. Everyone who works with them grows to love them! Food, accommodati ions and transport from Hobart to the worksite and back are includ ded. You will need to finance travel to Tasmania.
Wombat Protection
Organization: Wombat Protection Society Location: Quaama, NSW Cost: None Duration: Open Age: None specified Contact: research@wombatprotection.org.au Learn more: www.wombatprotection.org.au Any Special skills: Depends on the work being undertaken. A handling of
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wombats requires training and a good level of fitness. We have sedentary volunteer positions available. Details: Wombats are the most amazing creatures. They live in beautifully engineered temperature controlled burrows from where they fossick for grass, roots and fungi after dark returning before daybreak. Growing up to 40 kilos in weight from a jelly bean less than a gram when born, the joey makes a perilous journey from mum's cloacca to her pouch where it attaches to a teat and remains safely in her backwards facing pouch until about nine months old. A wide range of volunteer skills can be used here to help protect these amazing, yet comical, creatures, from administrative- including publicity and fundraising to field research and monitoring to working on release sites -which may involve building wombatoriums, fencing as well as research assistance in burrow monitoring, wombat sighting and some direct care.
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Other organizations offering projects in the Cook Islands: k Global Volunteers: www.globalvolunteers.org Health Care Volunteer: www.healthcarevolunteer.com Vets Beyond Borders: www.vetsbeyondborders.org Work Away: www.workaway.info
Fiji
Marine Conservation Expedition
Organization: Blue Ventures f Location: The castaway island of Leleuvia in the heart of Fiji
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Cost: $3,600 $4,000; includes food, accommodation, training and diving Duration: 6 weeks (3 30 week options available) Age: 18 Contact: info@blueventures.org Learn more: www.blueventures.org Special skills: none, full training provided Details: Blue Ventures is an award-winning marine conservation organization dedicated to conservation, education and sustainable development in tropical coastal communities. Volunteers to Leleuvia will work closely with local and international scientists from Blue Ventures and the University of the South Pacific in collecting vital data on the rich, but threatened marine life found on the coral reef systems in the Heart of Fiji. As well as conducting underwater surveys, volunteers will also conduct environmental education sessions on neighboring islands and help establish alternative livelihoods and management systems with the local fishing communities. The teams stay in traditional beach huts (bures) on a small tropical island and take part in Fijian kava kava ceremonies, local challenge rugby matches and the relaxed and friendly island life.
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Other organizations offering projects in Fiji i: Academic Treks: www.academictreks.com Earthwatch Institute: www.earthwatch.org Fiji Diving & Volunteering: www.diving-fiji.com ects): Madventurer (sports, teaching & community proje www.madventurer.compage Projects Abroad: www.projects-abroad.org Volunteer Eco Students Abroad: www.vesabroad.com World Horizons International: www.world-horizo ons.com
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands Teaching Year
Organization: WorldTeach an Location: Placements in outer islands and in urba centers Cost: None. Fully funded by Marshall Islands Department of Education 18-74 Duration: 1 year (Departure in mid- July) Age: 1 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: ww ww.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English skills, bachelors de egree Details: Volunteers teach in public elementary sch hools, high schools, and occasionally vocational schools in Majuro and on the outer islands. Volunteers should be prepared for the challenges of teaching in the supplies that are taken Marshalls. Schools on the outer islands lack basic s for granted in the United States, and volunteers oft purchase pens, ten paper, and markers before leaving for the country. Furthermore, volunteers may have to teach students with a wide range of English ng skills. While these circumstances may be frustratin at first, successful volunteers will be adept at finding solutions that en nable them to teach effectively despite the limited resource of the islands. Most es volunteers live with host fam milies, while some will live in teacher housing pr rovided by their school. Houses are basic, but wherever , possible volunteers will h have their own room or sleeping area.
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Micronesia
Federated States of Micronesia Teaching Year
Organization: WorldTeach Location: Kosrae & Phonpei Cost: None, Fully funded by Kosare & Pohnpai Departments of Education Duration: 1 year (Departure in mid-July) Age: 18-74 Contact: info@worldteach.org Learn more: www.worldteach.org Special skills: Native English Speaker, Bachelors degree Details: Volunteers should be prepared to teach math, science or English and be flexible to the needs of the school. Applicants with college classes in math and science will be given preference, although a math or science degree is not a requirement. Pohnpeian and Kosraen are the native languages, but English is commonly spoken throughout the FSM, especially on Pohnpei. High school students will know English to varying degrees from fluent to beginner. Classes will be taught in English. You will live in Kolonia, the main town on Pohnpei or in Madolenihmw or Kitti, the sites of the two rural high schools on the island. Volunteers will live together in apartments or houses and not with host families. There are also positions available to teach English/math at the College of Micronesia (Masters degree required). Other organizations offering projects in Micronesia: Earthwatch Institute: www.earthwatch.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org Leap Now: www.leapnow.org
New Zealand
Rainforest Recovery and Sustainable Living Project
Organization: Earthwise Living Foundation New Zealand Location: Earthwise Valley, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand Cost: Variable, a sliding scale donation is requested Duration: 6 weeks to 6 months Age: 18 Contact: volunteer@earthwisevalley.org Learn more: www.earthwisevalley.org
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Oceania
Special skills: Just enthusiasm and willingness to m give of oneself Details: At Earthwise Valley th heyre taking direct action to create an ecologically sound Centre for Sustainable Living. This include revitalizing es degraded farmland by replantin rainforest species, ng growing and planting fruit trees controlling animal s, pests and weeds, using organic and permacultural techniques. The Valley relies on your support and n needs your donations, advice an physical volunteer nd labor to make a difference. The Residential Volunte Programme suits eer people interested in learning about sustainable livin enjoying the ng, outdoors, and living a saner, richer and simpler life Earthwise Valley e. runs ecoAdventure trips one per week and a big o every 6 weeks one sea-kayaking, rock-climbing, hiking, camping, and more. Take part as a residential volunteer and you'll experience New Zea aland in a very special way while making a real contribution to nature.
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Southern Encounter
Organization: Hands Up Holidays Location: Catlins, on New Zealands, South Island Cost: $3,000 per person, based on sharing a room. Duration: 4 days volunteering/15 day trip Age: 16 years unless accompanied by an adult Contact: info@handsupholidays.com Learn more: www.handsupholidays.com Details: New Zealand is famed for its remarkable scenery of lakes, mountains and volcanoes, and friendly, welcoming people. Enjoy the rewards and fun of working on an environmental conservation project in a hidden gem part of New Zealand; help to ensure the ongoing existence of native species, including Yellow-Eyed Penguins, restore natural habitats and reduce the threat of pests. One of the highlights following your conservation volunteer project is a visit to the worldrenowned Doubtful Sound. An overnight cruise is the best way to discover the fur seals and bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the coves. For the thrill seekers, the adrenalin capital of Queenstown is the next stop. Other organizations offering projects in New Zealand: Conservation Volunteers of New Zealand: www.conservationvolunteers.co.nz i-to-i: www.i-to-i.com International Student Volunteers: www.isvonline.com Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com Travelers Worldwide: www.travellersworldwide.com
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Samoa
Organizations offering projects in Samoa South Pacific Business Development: www.spbd.ws Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com
Vanuatu
Family Volunteers: Turtles & Community Development
Organization: Global Visions International Location: Moso Island Cost: $2,320 for 4 weeks Duration: 2 to 4 weeks Age: Due to the varying group dynamics of different families (for example the number of children and ages of children), each application is dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Please call GVI directly to discuss your family's volunteer travel requirements. Contact: info@gviusa.com Learn more: www.gviusa.com Special skills: Global Village teams are open to all with a willingness to work hard, learn new skills and explore a new culture. Many of the trips require strenuous manual labor, so all participants should be in good health. Details: Volunteering with turtles as a part of vital sea turtle conservation will take you to the turquoise waters and golden sands of Vanuatu, voted the happiest place on earth in 2006 by the New Economics Foundation. This grassroots effort to protect sea turtles is run by the inhabitants of Tasiriki village on Moso Island, from the long-term nesting survey that was started in 2006 in conjunction with Wan Smolbag and GVI. Joining this volunteer program will also give you the chance to try your hand at many other activities that occur in the village, such as reef surveying, teaching at the village school and cooking local food. In your spare time you can snorkel on tropical reefs, learn to dive or just sit with your new friends in the village.
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Other organizations offering projects in Vanuatu: Service Civil International: www.sci-ivs.org Habitat for Humanity International: www.habitat.org OceansWatch: oceanswatch.org Project Marc (medical): www.project-marc.org
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IV
_______ Index of Volunteer Listings by Project Type Teaching in/out of Schools, Shorter-Term, Assistants...
South America Arutam Rainforest Reserve Ecuador Work in a Hostel and a School Ecuador Small Indigenous Community Volunteering Ecuador Teaching Rural Schools for the Andean Bear Project Ecuador Teachers Assistants for the Andean Bear Project Ecuador School Support Program Ecuador Summer Volunteer Program (English & Math) Ecuador Teaching Children in Guayaquil Ecuador Work with Nursery Children Peru Teaching Primary Grade School Peru The Mountain School Peru CEP Shanty Town School Peru Peruvian Elementary School Volunteer Program Peru Home for Teenage Mothers Peru Youth Care, Community and Conservation Venezuela North America Campus Volunteer at an Environmental School Costa Rica Teaching English in Low Income Schools Costa Rica At-Risk Childrens Programs Costa Rica DREAM Guzman Ariza Summer School & Camp Dominican Republic Children's Health Education Guatemala Manos de Colores Guatemala Youth Education and Achievement Guatemala CENEOH Haiti Jungle School Teachers Assistant Honduras El Porvenir Kinder and Grandmas Project Honduras Honduras Teaching Project Honduras Teach Environmental Health to 5-12 Year Olds Honduras Youth Fair Collaboration Honduras Building and Education in the Quarter of La Prusia Nicaragua Centro Educativo Ananda Marga Nicaragua Asia Volunteer in a Village in Cambodia Cambodia Volunteer in Children's Art Center Cambodia China English Program China Teaching English in Yantai China Development Education Programme India GVN India Womens & Childrens Programs India Bring Education to the Heart of India India V
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(Music, sports, arts, dance, computers, literacy, handicrafts, photography, parenting, conservation, communications, life-skills, vocational, etc.)
South America Tutoring Children and Teenagers Argentina Helping Hands Argentina Child Minding Center Bolivia Helping Children with Speech and Hearing Impairments Bolivia Creative Education Bolivia Work with Youth in a Detention Center Bolivia Working in a Favela (Squatter Community) in Rio Brazil Casa do Caminho Brazil VIII
XII
_______ Index of Volunteer Listings by Project Type Sports Programs, Teaching & Events
South America Coaching Sports and Physical Education - Bolivia Arts, Sports and Dance Projects in Favellas- Brazil Teaching Sports and Physical Education Peru North America Summer Camp for Disadvantaged Kids Belize Community Park Volunteer Guatemala Asia Tennis for Blind Children Japan Europe Transnatura Mountain Bike Stage Greece Prespa Children, Prespa in Motion Greece Summer School for Deprived Children in Rural Romania Romania Africa Kwahu Tafo: UVO Ghana Youth Soccer Coaching Ghana Teaching at Kaloleni Junior Academy Kenya Sports Education Program Kenya Sports Development in Underprivileged Communities South Africa Wildlife Conservation, Community & Sports Combo South Africa Zero to Hero Sports Adventure & Volunteering South Africa Bicycle Volunteer Project South Africa Malalo (Bridge) Sports Project Zambia Livingstone Sports Development Zambia
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_______ Index of Volunteer Listings by Project Type Gardening, Organic Farms, Permaculture & Sustainable Living
South America Outdoor Activities and Education Argentina Teach, Learn-Organic Farming & Sustainable Living Bolivia Casa do Caminho - Brazil Sustainable Agriculture & Community Projects Brazil (Teens) Regenerative Rural Work Ecuador Help Run an Award Winning Ecolodge Ecuador Farm Facilitator Internship Ecuador Garden, Reforestation and Environmental Education Ecuador Community Ecotourism and Conservation Ecuador Amazon Reserve Project Ecuador Galapagos: San Cristobal Reserve Ecuador Congal Biological Reserve Ecuador (aquaculture) Organic Farming Project Ecuador VISIONS Ecuador & Galapagos for Teens or Groups Ecuador Work at the Maquipucuna Ecological Reserve for Teens Ecuador Self-Sustainable Conservation Project Peru Sicches Organic Farm Peru Community Development Projects in Peru Peru (teen program) North America Gardening Where Mammoths and Cave Bears Trod Canada Building a Sustainable Green House Canada Coffee and Community Project Costa Rica Costa Rica's Sustainable Coffee Costa Rica Solidarity Brigades Cuba (tour/volunteer combo) Organic Gardening at El Nahual Community Center Guatemala Oaxaca Environmental Conservation Mexico Rural Sustainable Development/Farm Life Nicaragua Agriculture and Eco-Tourism Project Nicaragua VISIONS Nicaragua for Teens Nicaragua Volunteer Vacation at an Organic Farm in Darin Panama Woolfing Organic Farming USA Programs United States Asia Kibbutz Lotan Eco Volunteer Program Israel Juara Turtle Project Malaysia Nandumaya Self-Sustaining Orphan Home Nepal Permaculture in Palestine Palestinian Territories Philippines Marine Environment Project Philippines Outdoor Work in Thailand Thailand Island Community Eco Education Thailand XVII
(For Sea Turtle Projects see Wildlife Field Research, Species Identification & Conservation section)
North America Marine Conservation & Learn to Dive Bahamas Wild Dolphin Research Bahamas Bahamian Reef Survey Bahamas Safeguarding the Coral Reefs of Cayos Cochinos Honduras Caribbean Marine Conservation Netherlands Antilles (teens) Tobago Coastal Ecosystems Mapping Project Trinidad and Tobago
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Health Specialty Care Projects
(Dental, Vision, Prosthetics)
North America Health Clinics and Education in Rural Villages Mexico Asia Free Dental Care for Underprivileged Children Israel Medical Health Projects Philippines Europe Occupational Therapy, Applied Sciences, Youth Development and Education Bulgaria (physical therapy) Regional Hospital in Porto-Novo Benin (various specialties) Medical Mission to Egypt Egypt AMURT Clinic Project Akwakwaa Ghana (midwives) Africa Health Care and Medical Clinics Kenya (various specialties) Health Care Volunteering in Northern Madagascar Madagascar (dentistry) Mental Health Matters Nigeria (occupational therapists, physiotherapists)
Summer Camp for Disadvantaged Kids Belize DREAM Guzman Ariza Summer School & Camp Dominican Republic XXXVII
Development
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700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die Nonprofit Fundraising, Grants, Marketing & Office Skills
South America Non-Profit Tourism in the Bolivian Highlands Bolivia Nonprofit Fundraising, Grants, Marketing & Office Skills continued Wild Animal Rescue and Conservation Ecuador Island Conservation Ecuador Fighting Poverty with Education Peru Torre Torre Peru Supporting Artisans in the Sacred Valley Peru North America Animal Shelter and Veterinary Clinic Bahamas Furry Felines for Fuzzy Feelings Belize Sanctuary Sloths, Smiles and More Sloths Cost Rica Energy Systems Technician Cost Rica Project Administration Guatemala (families of city dump) Deaf Education in Kingston Jamaica IT for the Dogs Mexico Agriculture and Eco-Tourism Project Nicaragua Asia Panda Keeper Assistant China VSPCA Sanctuary Shelter & Volunteer Office Work India Mixed Projects for all Nature Lovers India Bali Animals Business Management Consultant Indonesia Animal Rescue Fundraising and Promotion Indonesia Wild Animal Rescue Project Singapore Designers and Fundraisers for Dogs Thailand Working with Local NGOs Vietnam Europe Natural Resources and Wildlife Bulgaria Africa Cheetah Conservation Administration Assistant Botswana Economic and Political Empowerment Ghana Ghana Community Development Program Ghana Business Development: Design and Merchandising Ghana Health Care Volunteering in Northern Madagascar Madagascar Mental Health Matters Nigeria Nigerian Red Cross Society Nigeria Fundraising/Office for Children in Christ Services Sierra Leone Music/Video Production and Promotion Tanzania XLII
Museum Work
North America Mammoth Graveyard Excavation United States (SD) Europe Whales and Tourism Iceland
Translators
North America Health Clinics and Education in Rural Villages Mexico (translators) Asia Teach or Interpret Onboard a Chartered Passenger Ship Japan/Global
South America Sustainable Agriculture & Community Projects Brazil VISIONS Ecuador & Galapagos for Teens or Groups Ecuador Work at the Maquipucuna Ecological Reserve for Teens Ecuador Service Work and Andean Discovery Peru Community Development Projects in Peru Peru North America VISIONS Island Passages British Virgin Islands (age 11-13) VISIONS British Virgin Islands British Virgin Islands VISIONS Language Immersion Costa Rica Costa Rica Sea Turtle Conservation for Teens Costa Rica VISIONS Service Dominica Dominica Community Development Dominica VISIONS Dominican Republic Dominican Republic VISIONS French Language Immersion for Teens Guadeloupe Teen Project: Recreational Work at Oaxacan Orphanage Mexico Caribbean Marine Conservation Netherlands Antilles VISIONS Nicaragua for Teens Nicaragua Teen Recreational Work at an Orphanage in Ometepe Nicaragua VISIONS Alaska United States VISIONS Mississippi for Teens United States VISIONS Northern Passages for 11 to 13 year old United States (MT) XLVIII
Uncategorized Skills
North America Health Clinics and Education in Rural Villages Mexico (pilots) Asia Przewalski Wild Horse Repatriation Mongolia (equestrians: experienced rider/campers to follow herd) Transporting Instruction and Environmental Camp Vietnam Europe Transnatura Mountain Bike Stage Greece (events help & coordinators) Faia Brava Woodlands Fire Surveillance & Conservation Portugal (fire surveillance) Africa Business Development: Design and Merchandising Ghana (apparel design & merchandising) Health Care Volunteering in Northern Madagascar Madagascar (technology, engineering) Primate Sanctuary Build, Garden, Cook & Video South Africa (cook)
700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die is a starting place an introduction. Beyond the book, a network has been created that offers the opportunity for like-minded travelers, nonprofits, travel providers and all those involved in philanthropic-orientated travel to exchange information and educate one another Please join us.
The Volunteer Before You Die Network is comprised of the following resources. A Volunteer Before You Die Website VolunteerBeforeYouDie.com is the central hub of the network. The site includes information on: Book sales, upcoming titles, lectures and events schedules How to list volunteer projects in future editions of this title How to update project information that is currently listed with the author Educational articles about volunteerism and travel News releases and announcements for those interested in giveback travel How to submit news releases to the network Registration for the free Voluntary Traveler newsletter Calls for authors and announcements regarding boos and writing contests focused on volunteering Links to additional recourses within the Volunteer Before You Die Network LI
By exchanging information travelers will work together to shape future editions of this book, bringing about improved and even more diverse project listings. Furthermore, the network creates a united voice. Through collaboration we have the power to tell the industry what we like and what needs improved. We have the power to learn, to educate, to exchange ideas and to encourage others along the road best traveled. LII